This Espada with tausi recipe is a classic Filipino-Chinese dish that delivers delicious, savory flavor in a simple, fast-cooking format. If you’re looking for an easy espada recipe that’s packed with umami, this one brings together garlic, ginger, and fermented black beans in a rich, balanced sauce.

Espada, also known as ribbon fish, cooks quickly and stays tender with a light, delicate texture. Paired with a glossy tausi sauce, it’s the kind of quick seafood dinner that feels deeply flavorful without being heavy.

Espada with Tausi (Ribbon Fish with Fermented Black Beans)

Servings: 3–4
Total time: about 25 minutes
Cooking method: pan-seared + sautéed sauce
Optional Filipino twist: finish with extra calamansi for a brighter, more balanced flavor

INGREDIENTS

For the Fish
500g Seareyna Espada Ribbon Fish Steaks
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons calamansi juice
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon neutral oil

For the Tausi Sauce

Aromatics
1½ tablespoons tausi (fermented black beans)
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ginger, julienned
¼ cup white onion, sliced
¼ cup red bell pepper strips
¼ cup green bell pepper strips

Sauce Liquid
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
2½ teaspoons soy sauce
1½ tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry white wine
½ cup chicken stock
1½ teaspoons brown sugar
½ teaspoon sesame oil

Slurry
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons water

PROCEDURE

Prepare and season the espada before cooking. Pat the fish dry thoroughly, then season with salt, white pepper, and calamansi juice. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before lightly coating with cornstarch.

Sear the fish until lightly crisp and cooked through. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the fish for about 1.5 to 2 minutes on the first side, then 45 seconds to 1 minute on the second side. Remove immediately and set aside.

Build the aromatic base of the tausi sauce. In the same pan, add a small amount of oil and sauté garlic, ginger, and tausi for about 20 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the vegetables while keeping them crisp. Add the onions and bell peppers and cook for about 30 seconds, keeping them slightly crisp and vibrant.

Add the sauce ingredients and simmer briefly. Pour in oyster sauce, soy sauce, wine, stock, and sugar. Let the mixture simmer for about 45 seconds to bring the flavors together.

Thicken the sauce to a glossy consistency. Add the cornstarch slurry gradually while stirring until the sauce becomes lightly thick and glossy.

Finish the dish by coating the fish in the sauce. Return the fish to the pan and spoon the sauce over it for 20 to 30 seconds without overcooking.

NOTES

Why Seareyna
Seareyna Espada Ribbon Fish Steaks are frozen at peak freshness to preserve its natural flavor and texture. The portions are pre-cut and ready to cook, making it easier to prepare traditional dishes at home.

Chef’s Tips
Dry the fish thoroughly before searing to achieve a better crust. Avoid overcooking the fish as it cooks quickly. Add the slurry gradually to control the thickness of the sauce.

Easy Swaps / Alternatives
You can substitute espada with Pacific Bay Cream Dory Fillets for a similar cooking method. You can also use whole fish like Barramundi (Apahap), Seareyna Lapu-Lapu, or Seareyna Tilapia.

Serving Ideas
Serve with garlic rice or plain steamed rice. Pair with sautéed bok choy or simple greens. Crispy garlic chips or a drizzle of sesame oil can add extra flavor.

Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain texture.

FAQS

Can I use frozen espada for this recipe?
Yes. Seareyna Espada Ribbon Fish Steaks is frozen at peak freshness and works well once thawed properly.

How do I know when espada is cooked?
The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily, but still remains tender.

Can I prepare the tausi sauce ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it before adding freshly cooked fish.

Can I make this dish less salty?
Yes. Reduce the amount of soy sauce or rinse the tausi lightly before cooking.

 

Ready to try this delicious, savory Espada with Tausi? Shop for Seareyna Espada Ribbon Fish Steaks online at pacificbay.com.ph and cook it at home.