Christmas Island Spiced Grilled Fish

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Karimeen pollichathu to Christmas Island cuisine, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients found on the island. The original Indian spices are enhanced with local Christmas Island spices, such as cinnamon and cloves, to create a fusion of flavors. Additionally, the use of banana leaves, a common ingredient in Christmas Island cuisine, adds a distinct earthy taste to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Karimeen pollichathu, so you can check it out.

• 2 Karimeen fish (500g each) or any firm white fish fillets 2 Karimeen fish (500g each) or any firm white fish fillets
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Banana leaves for wrapping Banana leaves for wrapping
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine turmeric powder, red chili powder, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, grated ginger, minced garlic, lime juice, and salt to form a marinade.
3. 3.
   Make diagonal cuts on both sides of the fish fillets and rub the marinade all over the fish, ensuring it is well coated. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   Take a piece of banana leaf and briefly pass it over an open flame to make it pliable.
5. 5.
   Place a marinated fish fillet on the banana leaf and wrap it tightly, securing the ends with toothpicks.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process for the remaining fish fillets.
7. 7.
   Grill the wrapped fish on the preheated grill 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 and carefully unwrap the fish.
9. 9.
   Serve the grilled fish hot 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 unique flavor imparted by banana leaves will be missing.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the smoky flavor, you can grill the fish over charcoal instead of a gas grill.
• If you prefer a spicier taste, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
• Serve the grilled fish with a side of steamed rice and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different types of fish, such as snapper or barramundi, for a variation in flavors.
• For a more intense aroma, lightly toast the spices before grinding them.

Serving advice

Serve the Christmas Island Spiced Grilled Fish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and accompanied by lime wedges for squeezing over the fish. This dish pairs well with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Presentation advice

Present the grilled fish on a platter, with the banana leaves still partially wrapped around the fish for an attractive and rustic presentation. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro leaves for a pop of color.