Specialty Grilled Fish from Miao Ridge

Specialty Grilled Fish from Miao Ridge

　　Specialty Grilled Fish from Miao Ridge

　　The Chinese civilization boasts a history of thousands of years, and the legends of the Three Kingdoms have long captivated people’s imaginations: the Oath of the Peach Garden, Zhuge Liang’s verbal duels with the scholars of Wu, the burning of Red Cliffs, and the seven captures of Meng Huo... Each tale is steeped in fantasy and wonder. Legend has it that Zhuge Shenghou, who was said to dwell intermittently in Langya, had a particular fondness for grilled fish. Whenever he hosted a family banquet, he would always invite his closest friends to share the meal. Later, he assisted Liu Bei. Years later, due to exhaustion from battle and toil, as well as poor sleep and appetite, Liu Bei became weakened. Upon hearing this, Zhuge ordered his chefs to prepare grilled and stewed fish, seasoned with precious medicinal ingredients, and presented it to Liu Bei’s bedside. The aroma roused Liu Bei, who found his appetite returning. After eating his fill, he declared, “Now I am satisfied,” then took up his spear, mounted his horse, divided the realm, and built the kingdom of Shu. After Liu Bei ascended the throne, he promoted the skilled chef to imperial cook. This grilled fish became an imperial delicacy, cherished through generations. By the early Qing Dynasty, the recipe had made its way to the Miao regions of Qianling, where it was further refined and became especially favored by the Miao royal family. At one point, the Miao royalty decreed that the technique for making this grilled fish should not be shared with outsiders. Over 200 years later, during a period of enlightened reform, the knowledge spread among the people, and the dish eventually reached food lovers far and wide. Among the Miao people, this grilled fish was reserved for grand banquets and celebrated as the “main festive dish,” hence the name “Miao Ridge Grilled Fish.”

　　Today’s Miao Ridge grilled fish embodies a rich culinary heritage, preserving traditional craftsmanship while integrating roasting and stewing techniques. Inspired by the essence of Guizhou cuisine and borrowing features from hot pot cooking, the fish is first grilled and then simmered—resulting in tender, glistening flesh and an aroma that fills the air. A true specialty of Miao Ridge. With energy and vibrancy, the fish seems to leap across the land, embodying the wisdom of Chinese heroes and the finest seasonings from classic recipes. Upholding both culinary skill and health principles, this is the Miao Ridge grilled fish we know today. Hence, we extend an invitation to all to gather, share, and enjoy this delightful dish together.

　　The magic of “Specialty Grilled Fish from Miao Ridge” lies in its unique preparation method, rich aroma, bright red broth, spicy yet non-irritating flavor, crispy outer layer, and tender meat. It also offers a distinctive smoky aroma and bold seasoning taste that leaves an unforgettable aftertaste—you’ll want to eat it again and again. While reviving centuries-old culinary traditions, it also leads the new trend of modern grilled fish cuisine. The entire cooking process is finely tuned to prevent nutrient loss from the fish caused by excessively low or high temperatures, maximizing the nutritional benefits. It contributes to women’s beauty and fitness, children’s brain development, and men’s strong bones.

　　Although the name “Specialty Grilled Fish from Miao Ridge” includes the word “grilled,” it is distinctly different from traditional barbecue methods. It incorporates the essence of various cooking techniques such as grilling and brushing. First, live fish are freshly caught and grilled on the spot, marinated for a period using a proprietary blend of seasonings. Then, the fish is roasted over charcoal until it reaches 90% doneness, resulting in a crispy skin and tender flesh. Finally, it is placed in a vessel filled with a secret broth and slow-cooked over a small flame as you eat, allowing the flavors and nutrients from the broth to gradually seep into the fish. Not only does it retain the fresh taste of the fish, but it also offers a unique smoky aroma and rich seasoning taste—rich but not greasy, incredibly delicious, and with an unforgettable aftertaste.

　　Cooking Process of Miao Ridge Specialty Grilled Fish: Live fish slaughtering – cleaning – marination – grilling over charcoal to 90% doneness – brushing with oil – sprinkling with seasonings – plating the grilled fish – stir-frying seasonings according to customer taste preferences and pouring the prepared sauce over the fish – serving to customers for tasting.