zik1鯽鲫
Jyutpingzik1
Yalejīk
Definition
Crucian carp; gold fish ancestor
colloquialfood
How it's used
Crucian carp is almost exclusively referred to as 鯽魚 in Cantonese, as the single character 鯽 is rarely used in isolation. It is highly prized in local cooking for its ability to create a milky white, nutritious broth when fried and then boiled. You will frequently see it featured in home-style Cantonese soups, often paired with ingredients like tofu or ginger.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
Shall we buy a crucian carp to make soup tonight?
This crucian carp is very fresh, it is best for pan-frying.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 鯉魚, which refers to common carp. While both are freshwater fish, they have different culinary uses and appearances.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
