Transport yourself to the vibrant shores of Thailand with this mouthwatering recipe for Thai Grilled Fish in Banana Leaf. Imagine the fragrant aroma of lemongrass, galangal, and chilies mingling with the smoky sweetness of grilled fish, all wrapped in the delicate perfume of banana leaves. This festive dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, offering a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The vibrant colors and exotic spices create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
This recipe showcases the authentic tastes of Thailand, readily achievable even for home cooks. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the marinade to perfectly grilling the fish, ensuring a flawlessly delicious result every time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Grill/Charcoal Barbecue
- Knife
- Mortar and Pestle
Ingredients
- Fish (e.g., Nile Tilapia)
- Coriander
- Garlic
- Lemongrass
- Chili
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Basil
- Salt
- Banana leaves
- Bamboo sticks
- Chili
- Garlic
- Fish sauce
- Palm sugar
- Vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish and Marinade
- Slice the fish to allow flavor penetration.
- Blend coriander, garlic, lemongrass, chili, and olive oil to create a marinade.
- Add basil (optional) to the marinade.
- Stuff the marinade around the fish.
- Season with salt.
- Refrigerate for 25 minutes.
Step 2. Wrap and Marinate
- Wrap the fish in banana leaves, securing with bamboo sticks.
Step 3. Grill the Fish
- Prepare the charcoal barbecue.
- Grill the fish until smoky.
Step 4. Serve with Dipping Sauce
- Prepare a dipping sauce by blending chili, garlic, fish sauce, palm sugar, and vinegar.
- Pour the dipping sauce over the cooked fish.
- Serve.
Read more: Thai Grilled Eggplant Salad (Yum Makua Yow): A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Make sure the fish is sliced to allow the marinade to penetrate.
- The marinade will create a strong, flavorful taste.
- The dipping sauce offers a strong, spicy, garlic, and vinegar taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! Firm, white-fleshed fish like snapper, sea bass, or cod work well. Avoid overly delicate fish that might fall apart during grilling.
2. What if I don't have banana leaves?
Heavy-duty aluminum foil makes a good substitute. Just make sure to crimp the edges tightly to seal in the flavors and moisture.
This Thai Grilled Fish in Banana Leaf recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients elevated by vibrant Thai flavors. The combination of smoky fish, fragrant herbs, and the subtle sweetness of the banana leaf creates a truly unforgettable dish. Enjoy this festive feast with family and friends, and savor the taste of Thailand in every bite.