Grilled Spiced Fish in Banana Leaves

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (such as snapper or tilapia), about 6 ounces (170g) each 4 fish fillets (such as snapper or tilapia), about 6 ounces (170g) each
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• 2 teaspoons (10g) turmeric powder 2 teaspoons (10g) turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons (10g) ginger paste 2 teaspoons (10g) ginger paste
• 2 teaspoons (10g) lemongrass paste 2 teaspoons (10g) lemongrass paste
• 2 teaspoons (10g) shallot paste 2 teaspoons (10g) shallot paste
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
• 4 banana leaves, cut into 8x8 inch (20x20cm) squares 4 banana leaves, cut into 8x8 inch (20x20cm) squares
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the vegetable oil, lime juice, turmeric powder, ginger paste, lemongrass paste, shallot paste, salt, and sugar. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure that the fish is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Take a banana leaf square and briefly pass it over an open flame to make it pliable. This step helps prevent the leaves from tearing.
5. 5.
   Place a marinated fish fillet in the center of the banana leaf square. Fold the sides of the leaf over the fish, creating a neat package. Secure the package with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process with the remaining fish fillets and banana leaves.
7. 7.
   Grill the fish packages over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and the banana leaves are slightly charred.
8. 8.
   Remove the toothpicks or twine before serving. Serve the Grilled Spiced Fish in Banana Leaves with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Banana leaves — If you can't find fresh banana leaves, you can use parchment paper as a substitute. However, the flavor won't be the same.
• Lemongrass paste — If you can't find lemongrass paste, you can use fresh lemongrass stalks. Finely chop the stalks and blend them with a little water to form a paste.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the smoky flavor, you can add a small piece of charcoal to the grill while cooking the fish.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a small amount of chili paste or fresh chili peppers to the marinade.
• Make sure to thoroughly clean the banana leaves before using them to remove any dirt or debris.
• Serve the Grilled Spiced Fish in Banana Leaves with steamed rice and a side of sambal for a complete Indonesian meal.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the fish packages in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Spiced Fish in Banana Leaves hot off the grill. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side. This dish pairs well with steamed rice and a side of sambal for an authentic Indonesian experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, carefully unwrap the banana leaf packages at the table to reveal the aromatic fish. The vibrant green color of the banana leaves against the golden fish creates an eye-catching display. Serve on individual plates or a platter for sharing.