5 pcs of butterfish or a lb of red snapper  or sea bass
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp lemon juice
oil for frying
2 tbsp chopped garlic
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup finely chopped tomatoes
1 1/2 tsp fresly ground pepper
1/2 cup water
2 tsp fish sauce
1/8 tsp msg (optional)
chopped scallion or chives
 

Season the fish with salt, pepper and lemon juice. Let stand for 20 minutes.

In a large skillet,fry the fish until they are golden brown on both sides.

Drain on absorbent paper towel.

In another large skillet, saute garlic in 3 tbsp oil until brown,then onion until transparent

Add tomatoes  and saute until soft. Add pepper,water,fish sauce,and msg,if  using.Simmer until a saucy consistency is achieved.
Add the fried fish to the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, turning the fillets once.

Serve hot, garnished with scallion or chives.