Steamed Rice Wrapped Fish with Spicy Citrus Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Delicate white fish fillets are steamed wrapped in fragrant rice paper and served with a bright, spicy citrus dipping sauce for a light and refreshing meal. This vietnamese-inspired seafood (gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends sheets rice paper sheets, fresh lime juice, fish sauce into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 3 Vietnamese cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pour 1 cup warm water into a shallow bowl. Dip 1 rice paper sheet into the water for 10 seconds until soft and pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
  2. Step 2: Place 2 oz of white fish fillet (12 oz total divided into 6 portions) in the center of the softened rice paper. Season with 1/8 tsp salt and a pinch of 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Step 3: Fold the rice paper over the fish, tucking in the edges to form a sealed packet. Repeat with remaining fish and rice paper sheets.
  4. Step 4: Set up a steamer with boiling water and steam the wrapped fish packets for 8 minutes over medium-high heat until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
  5. Step 5: While steaming, combine 3 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp red chili flakes, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and 2 sliced green onions in a small bowl. Stir well until honey dissolves.
  6. Step 6: Remove steamed fish packets carefully and serve immediately with the spicy citrus sauce drizzled over or as a dipping sauce on the side.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Steamed Rice Wrapped Fish with Spicy Citrus Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Steamed Rice Wrapped Fish with Spicy Citrus Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Steamed Rice Wrapped Fish with Spicy Citrus Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Steamed Rice Wrapped Fish with Spicy Citrus Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Steamed Rice Wrapped Fish with Spicy Citrus Sauce gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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