Sweet Soy Glazed Grilled Gurame Fish

Ingredients:

• 1 large gurame fish
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 5 shallots
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 2 tablespoons chili sauce
  • 100 ml sweet soy sauce
  • Salt and sugar to taste
  • 75 ml water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the gurame fish. Make diagonal cuts along the body of the fish to help the marinade penetrate. Rub the fish with lime juice and salt, and let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Fry the Fish: After marinating, heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until it is cooked and the skin is crispy. Aim for a slightly dry texture to prepare it for the final grilling.

3. Prepare the Spice Paste: While the fish is frying, make the spice paste. Blend the shallots, garlic, black pepper, and coriander seeds into a smooth paste. In a pan, sauté this paste until fragrant. Add salt and sugar to taste, then stir in the chili sauce and sweet soy sauce. Pour in the water and simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.

4. Grill the Fish: Preheat your grill to a low heat. Coat the fried fish with the prepared spice paste. Place the fish on the grill and cook over low heat, turning occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the fish is caramelized.

5. Serve: Once the fish is well-coated with the sauce and has a nice glaze, remove it from the grill. Serve hot, and enjoy the rich, sweet, and savory flavors of your grilled gurame.

This dish is perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion, offering a deliciously unique taste that pairs beautifully with steamed rice and fresh vegetables.