Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced (1 cup)

1 red bell pepper, stems, ribs, and seeds removed, cut into 3/4-inch pieces

1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (from a 1-inch piece)

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro stems, plus 1/2 cup leaves for serving

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

2 tablespoons green curry paste, such as Maesri

2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar

1 can (13.5 ounces) light coconut milk

8 ounces clam juice

1 1/4 pounds monkfish fillet, skin and dark membrane removed, cut into 1-inch pieces

Cooked rice, for serving (optional)

1 serrano, red-finger, or Thai chile (ribs and seeds removed for less heat, if desired), thinly sliced, for serving

Preparation

Heat oil in a large straight-sided skillet over medium. When oil shimmers, add onion, bell pepper, ginger, and cilantro stems; season with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and golden in places, 12 to 15 minutes. Add curry; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add vinegar; boil until mostly evaporated. Add coconut milk and clam juice; bring to a simmer.

Generously season fish with salt and pepper; stir into skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook at a bare simmer, stirring gently a few times, until just cooked through but not falling apart, about 4 minutes. Ladle into bowls with rice, top with cilantro leaves and chile, and serve.