Grilled Jumbo Mackerel Otak-Otak with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Recipe: Jumbo Mackerel Otak-Otak

Ingredients:

• 2.2 lbs (1 kg) mackerel fish, bones removed and flesh diced
• 2 tbsp tapioca flour
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 200 ml thick coconut milk
• 2 stalks of spring onions, finely chopped

Spice Paste:

• 3 cloves garlic
• 3 shallots
• 1/4 tsp ground pepper

Peanut Sauce:

• 5 bird’s eye chilies
• 2 shallots
• Handful of fried peanuts
• 300 ml water
• Banana leaves, for wrapping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the banana leaves by cutting them into large squares.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the tapioca flour, cornstarch, coconut milk, and chopped spring onions until well combined.
3. Add the spice paste ingredients (garlic, shallots, and ground pepper) to the bowl and mix thoroughly.
4. Place a generous amount of the fish mixture onto each piece of banana leaf. Fold the sides of the leaves over the mixture and secure with toothpicks or skewers.
5. Steam the wrapped otak-otak for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
6. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the otak-otak on both sides until the banana leaves begin to char slightly.
7. Meanwhile, prepare the peanut sauce by blending together bird’s eye chilies, shallots, and fried peanuts with water until smooth. Cook the mixture in a saucepan until slightly thickened. Season with salt, sugar, and vinegar to taste.
8. Serve the grilled otak-otak hot with the prepared peanut sauce on the side.

Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic Jumbo Mackerel Otak-Otak, perfect for sharing with friends and family!