Tongan-Style Grilled Walleye Sandwich

Ingredients

In this Tongan adaptation, we infuse the walleye fillets with Tongan spices to add a unique flavor profile. The traditional American sandwich is transformed by using a toasted coconut bun instead of a regular bun, and the addition of a tangy pineapple salsa and a creamy coconut-lime sauce brings a tropical twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Walleye Sandwich, so you can check it out.

• 4 walleye fillets (400g / 14 oz) 4 walleye fillets (400g / 14 oz)
• 2 tablespoons Tongan spice blend 2 tablespoons Tongan spice blend
• 4 coconut buns 4 coconut buns
• 1 cup pineapple, diced (150g) 1 cup pineapple, diced (150g)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (40g) 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (40g)
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (10g) 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (10g)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 cup coconut cream (120ml) 1/2 cup coconut cream (120ml)
• 1 tablespoon lime zest 1 tablespoon lime zest
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 10g)
• Protein: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   Rub the walleye fillets with the Tongan spice blend, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to make the pineapple salsa. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut cream and lime zest to make the coconut-lime sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
5. 5.
   Grill the marinated walleye fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and flaky.
6. 6.
   Toast the coconut buns on the grill for a minute or until lightly browned.
7. 7.
   Assemble the sandwiches by placing a grilled walleye fillet on each toasted coconut bun. Top with a generous amount of pineapple salsa and drizzle with the coconut-lime sauce.
8. 8.
   Serve the Tongan-style grilled walleye sandwiches immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut cream — Make sure to use full-fat coconut cream for a creamy and rich texture.
• Pineapple — Choose ripe and sweet pineapple for the salsa to balance the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• If you can't find coconut buns, you can use regular burger buns and brush them with coconut oil before toasting.
• Adjust the amount of Tongan spice blend according to your spice preference.
• Serve the sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Tongan-style grilled walleye sandwich with a side of pineapple salsa and coconut-lime sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, place the grilled walleye fillet on the bottom half of the toasted coconut bun, then layer the pineapple salsa on top. Drizzle the coconut-lime sauce over the salsa and cover with the other half of the bun. Serve the sandwich open-faced to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients.