Dominica Coconut Baked Fish
A flavorful and tender baked fish dish infused with the creamy richness of coconut milk, aromatic herbs, and local spices. This recipe highlights the fresh seafood and tropical ingredients common in Dominican cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 6-ounce White fish fillets(such as snapper, mahi-mahi, or grouper)
- 1 cup Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped (any color))
- 1/2 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced, seeds removed for less heat (optional))
- 2 sprigs Fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
💡 Tip: Ensures even cooking. - 2
Season fish fillets with salt and pepper.
- 3
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
💡 Tip: This builds the aromatic base for the sauce. - 4
Add minced garlic and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Pour in coconut milk, add thyme sprigs, lime juice, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
💡 Tip: Do not boil vigorously, just a gentle simmer. - 6
Place fish fillets in a baking dish. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the fish.
💡 Tip: Ensure the fish is partially submerged in the liquid. - 7
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
💡 Tip: Check for doneness by gently flaking the thickest part of the fish. - 8
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
💡 Tip: Adds a burst of freshness and color.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use fresh coconut milk if available.
- ✓Serve with rice and peas or boiled green bananas for a complete Dominican meal.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like chopped tomatoes or okra to the coconut milk mixture.
- Incorporate a pinch of curry powder for a subtle curry flavor.
- Marinate the fish in lime juice and herbs for 30 minutes before baking for extra flavor.