Spicy Buttered Bangus

Spicy Buttered Bangus is a very simple but absolutely delicious Filipino milkfish recipe made with tender cooked bangus, a rich butter sauce, and a spicy kick. The perfect dish for family dinners and special occasions!

What makes Bangus an important fish in the Philippines ?

In the Philippines, milkfish is locally known as “bangus”. This fish is seen as more than just a popular seafood choice. It is a national symbol, a source of livelihood, and a staple on Filipino dining tables. So much so that bangus actually holds the official title of the Philippines’ national fish.

It’s a national symbol of pride; In 2001, Bangus was declared the national fish of the Philippines. A recognition highlighting its deep cultural and economic importance to the country. Bangus represents resilience and abundance which are notable qualities that reflect the Filipino spirit.

A fish that thrives in both fresh and saltwater, milkfish can be farmed across many regions, making it accessible and affordable for families nationwide. As a daily favorite in Filipino households. Its mild flavor and versatility make it suitable for a variety of dishes, including:

• Sinigang – A sour tamarind-based soup flavored with simple seasonings and vegetables.
• Bangus Sisig – A sizzling, spicy, shredded milkfish dish that’s an absolute party favorite.
• Rellenong Bangus – A filling deboned and stuffed milkfish served on special occasions
• Fried, grilled, smoked (tinapa), or cooked in coconut milk.
  

Milkfish plays a crucial role in the Philippine economy. As the country is one of the world’s top producers of bangus / milkfish, with aquaculture farms located in provinces like Iloilo, Pangasinan—often called the “Bangus Capital of the Philippines.”, and Zamboanga. Thousands of Filipino families depend on fishing this local fish, bangus farming, plus processing, and distribution of these for their livelihood. Fishponds and coastal farms generate employment opportunities, especially in rural communities. There are even famous celebrations honoring milkfish at the Bangus Festival in Dagupan City, Pangasinan. A festival that showcases the cultural and economic importance of this beloved fish.

Beyond economics and nutrition, milkfish is tied to Filipino identity. Almost every Filipino has grown up eating bangus. A national treasure, from family kitchens to large-scale aquaculture farms, bangus supports many people’s livelihoods, strengthens food security, and preserves culinary traditions. The importance goes far beyond the plate; it also represents culture, resilience, and Filipino pride.A comfort food, tradition, and heritage all in one.

Bangus Health Benefits

Bangus, or milkfish, is a highly nutritious seafood rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. All these benefits help promote heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels and even reducing inflammation. The high protein content also supports muscle growth and tissue repair. Bangus is also a good source of vitamin B12 for brain function, phosphorus for strong bones and teeth, and selenium for immune support. 

For those on a diet, and wanting to try this recipe, understanding buttered garlic bangus calories is important, the cooking methods and added ingredients like butter does increase calorie content. For this recipe, the calories amount to 300 or 450 calories for a serving of 1 fillet or 150 to 200 grams.

Why try this Spicy Garlic Buttered Bangus Recipe ?

If you love bold flavors and satisfying seafood dishes, then this Spicy Buttered Garlic Bangus is a must-try! A Filipino favorite that combines the rich, creamy taste of butter with the deep aroma of toasted garlic and a bit of chili for a fiery kick, perfectly complementing the tender, flaky texture of bangus steak. The balance of spice and savory goodness makes every bite burst with delicious goodness. It’s a versatile dish that works beautifully for everyday meals or special gatherings, it pairs perfectly with steamed rice or even garlic fried rice and egg on the side for a heavy healthy breakfast. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious way to start your day or simply looking to explore Filipino cuisine, this Spicy Buttered Garlic Bangus dish delivers comfort, flavor, and a delicious twist all in one plate.

Spicy Buttered Garlic Bangus Ingredients :

• Milkfish – steak cut or any type of cut, you can also choose to substitute this with any type of fish. To make it easier to eat, you can also buy boneless bangus.
• Salt – for seasoning, enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Butter – adds richness into the sauce.
• Garlic – for flavor, the more the better.
• Green or Red chillies – add more or less, depending on how spicy you want it to be.
• Oyster sauce – gives the sauce a nice gloss and savory taste.
• Sugar – for sweetness and to help thicken the sauce a bit.
• Black pepper – for taste.
• Sprite – acts as a tenderizer and sweetener.
• Spring onion – for garnish. 
• Oil – for frying.

Spicy Buttered Bangus Recipe

• Ingredients :
• 1 kilo milkfish ( steak cut )
• 1 teaspoon salt ( or more for seasoning )
• ¼ cup butter
• 6 cloves garlic ( minced )
• Green or Red chillies ( sliced )
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Black pepper to taste 
• 1 cup Sprite
• Spring onion for garnish
• Oil for frying

Steps :

1. Prepare the cleaned bangus by seasoning these with salt. In a pan with hot oil, fry the fish until golden brown. Flip if needed. Once golden, set aside.

2. In another pan, melt butter and saute garlic until aromatic. Add in chillies, oyster sauce, sugar, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Pour in Sprite, cook until the sauce has slightly reduced. Add back the friend milkfish. Cook for a few minutes, basting the fishes to make sure the sauce is well absorbed.

4. Garnish with spring onions before serving.

Different Variations

1. Lemon Buttered Bangus – adding fresh  lemon juice and zest into the buttery garlic sauce, gives the dish a light citrus flavor that balances the richness of the fish. This version is bright, zesty, and refreshing, best for those who prefer a cleaner, less spicy taste with a fragrant twist.
2. Cheesy Buttered Bangus – For a richer and more indulgent option, after cooking the fish in garlic butter sauce, top it with grated mozzarella or quick-melt cheese. Cover to let this melt faster. The creamy cheese adds extra flavor, and makes it a family-friendly favorite, especially for kids.
3.  Buttered Boneless Bangus – this version is a convenient and easy-to-eat version, especially great for kids and guests. Using deboned milkfish makes you fully enjoy the buttery garlic sauce without worrying about small fish bones.
4. Sweet and Spicy Buttered Bangus – a recipe that adds a touch of brown sugar or honey to the garlic butter sauce, combined with chili for heat. It makes a  flavorful glaze that glistens all over the fish.
5. Buttered Garlic Bangus with Bagoong – For a bold Filipino twist, try adding bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Even just a small amount of bagoong mixed into the butter sauce adds a salty, umami depth that enhances the overall flavor. This version also pairs wonderfully with tomatoes and rice.

Try our other Yummy Bangus Recipes :

How to Store : 

1. Cool Before Storing : Make sure the dish has fully cooled to room temperature (but no longer than 1–2 hours after cooking). Leaving it out too long may cause bacterial growth.
2. Use an Airtight Container : once cooled, transfer the dish to a clean, airtight container. If there are any sauces leftover, store the fish and sauce together to keep it moist.
3. Refrigeration : this stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
4. Freezing (For Longer Storage) : if you want to keep this for longer; this can last up to 1–2 months in the freezer.
5. Reheating Tips – Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with just  a bit of water to help dilute the sauce a bit, You can also ‘bake’ this in the oven at 150°C for 10 – 15 minutes just until warmed. Add a small amount of water or butter on top if needed to keep it moist. Avoid overheating to maintain the fish’s tender texture.

What to Pair this Simple Buttered Bangus Recipe with ?

• Steamed White Rice – a classic side pairing and the best partner. Plain rice absorbs the buttery garlic sauce and balances the heat perfectly. You can also choose to use different types of rice like brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa to make it healthier.
• Atchara (Pickled Papaya) – The sweet and tangy flavor cuts through the richness and spiciness of the sauce, and refreshes the palate.
• Fresh Tomato and Salted Egg Salad (Ensaladang Itlog na Maalat) – similar to the atchara but more filling. This simple side of tomatoes, salted egg, and onions adds freshness and a salty contrast.
• Grilled or Steamed Vegetables– a more fiber rich side pairing, the most common vegetable pairing are okra, eggplant, kangkong (water spinach), or green beans help lighten the meal and add texture. Or make chopsuey for a mix of all of these.
• Light Soup – For the colder weather, a side of mild broth or vegetable soup pairs well to balance the richness. 
• Drinks – if you want a simple pairing since you prefer to enjoy the fish dish as a light meal you can enjoy this with- Iced tea, Calamansi juice, Cold soda, or a Light beer (for gatherings)

For a complete Filipino-style meal, serve it with rice, a vegetable side, and a refreshing drink for a satisfying and well-balanced dining experience.

Buttered Garlic Bangus belly ( Tagalog )

Mga Sangkap :

• 1 kilo bangus ( steak cut )
• 1 kutsarita ng asin ( dagdagan pang timpla )
• ¼ tasa ng mantikilya
• 6 butil ng bawang ( tinadtad )
• Berde at Pulang sili ( hiniwa )
• 2 kutsara ng oyster sauce
• 1 kutsara ng asukal 
• Paminta panlasa
• 1 tasa ng Sprite
• Dahon ng sibuyas pang dekorasyon
• Mantika pang prito

Paano Lutuin :

1. Ihanda ang mga bangus, pahidan ng asin. Sa kawali na may mainit na mantika, iprito ang mga ito hanggang golden. Pag baliktaran kung kinakailangan. Itabi.
2. Sa ibang kawali, tunawin ang mantikilya at lutuin ang bawang hanggang bumango. Haluan ng sili, oyster sauce, asukal, at paminta. 
3. Buhusan ng Sprite, lutuin hanggang kumapal ang sarsa. Ibalik ang bangus at lutuin ng ilang minuto, ibaste ang mga isda para ma sipsip ang sarsa.
4. Dekorasyonan ng dahon ng sibuyas bago ihanda.