Fish caramelised in claypot is a popular way to cook from the south of Vietnam to the Center. Not only does the caramel sauce complement the fish, it also preserves it, meaning you can keep it for a little longer than other dishes. I love this with rice and my mother's recipe is still my favorite. The black pepper is a must!

Ingredients

• 600gr mackerel fillets, 2cm thick slices
• 2 ½ tblsp fish sauce
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tblsp sugar
• ½ tsp coarse black pepper
• ½ cup shallot confit (see page 237)
• ¾ tsp burnt sugar (see page 238)
• 1 cup fish stock

Method

Place all ingredients in a wide shallow cooking pan.

Stir gently with chopsticks to incorporate the ingredients.

Bring to a rapid boil for 3 minutes. Turn heat down. Simmer gently for 15 minutes on a very low heat covered.

Serve with steamed rice and green vegetables.

Season to taste.

Serves 4 as a main.