Spicy Grilled Pomfret (Bawal Bakar Pedas)
Dive into the culinary delight of Spicy Grilled Pomfret, a dish that promises a burst of flavors with every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal, this recipe brings together fresh ingredients and bold spices to create a seafood experience that is truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
| Category | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Fish | 2 large pomfret fish |
| Marinade | 4 cloves garlic |
| 2 pieces ginger (about 2 inches) | |
| Salt (to taste) | |
| Spice Paste | 5 candlenuts |
| 4 cloves garlic | |
| 4 shallots | |
| 10 curly red chilies | |
| 15 bird’s eye chilies | |
| 1 piece ginger (about 2 inches) | |
| 1 piece turmeric (about 2 inches) | |
| Ground black pepper (to taste) | |
| 1 medium-sized tomato | |
| Sugar (to taste) | |
| Salt (to taste) | |
| For Grilling | 1 stalk lemongrass (crushed for basting) |
| Cooking oil (for grilling) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sodium | Varies based on added salt |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Clean the pomfret thoroughly under running water. Pat dry with a paper towel. Marinate the fish with the ground garlic, ginger, and salt. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the candlenuts, garlic, shallots, curly red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, ginger, turmeric, ground black pepper, and the tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the seasoning by adding sugar and salt to taste.
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Cook the Spice Paste: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of cooking oil. Once hot, add the spice paste and sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until fragrant. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavors of the spices.
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Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill or prepare a charcoal fire until the coals are glowing and covered with ash. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill the Fish: Place the marinated pomfret on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then carefully flip it over. While grilling, baste the fish with the sautéed spice paste using the crushed lemongrass for even distribution of flavor.
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Check for Doneness: Continue grilling until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork, approximately 10-15 minutes in total depending on the size of the fish.
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Serve: Once done, carefully remove the fish from the grill. Arrange it on a serving platter and garnish as desired. Enjoy your spicy grilled pomfret with steamed rice and a side of fresh salad or sambal.
Enjoy!
This Spicy Grilled Pomfret is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into a mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe will surely impress. Happy cooking! 😊
