Garlic Shoots and Black Wood Ear Fungus Stir-Fried Fish

Why people make this dish

This stir-fry brings together two ingredients long used in Chinese food therapy for heart and metabolic health. Garlic shoots — the young green stalks that grow before the garlic bulb matures — contain allicin-like compounds with strong antimicrobial properties and are associated in traditional use with protecting the liver, stimulating digestion, and supporting the immune system. Black wood ear fungus is sometimes called the “blood cleanser” in Chinese folk medicine, with a traditional reputation for nourishing the blood, supporting intestinal movement, and helping to prevent blood stagnation. Together with a good source of lean protein from the fish, this is a flavourful, practical dish for families watching their cardiovascular health.

A note on fish selection: Nourilo prefers not to use bottom-feeding fish such as catfish, grey mullet, or similar species, as they tend to accumulate heavier concentrations of heavy metals and pollutants. Firm white fish such as bream, snapper, grouper, or similar sea fish are preferable choices.