Kiribati Fried Fish with Pandanus Sauce
A simple yet flavorful dish featuring pan-fried fresh fish coated in a savory pandanus-infused coconut sauce, a staple in I-Kiribati cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Fresh white fish fillets(such as snapper, grouper, or parrotfish, cut into serving pieces)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 3 large Pandanus leaves(tied into a knot, or 1 tsp pandan extract)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for frying)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- 2
In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the knotted pandanus leaves (or pandan extract).
💡 Tip: If using fresh pandanus leaves, ensure they are well washed and tied securely. - 3
Bring the coconut milk mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened and the pandanus aroma is infused.
💡 Tip: Do not boil vigorously, as this can cause the coconut milk to split. - 4
Remove the pandanus leaves from the sauce. Stir in the lime juice.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. - 5
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: Ensure the oil is hot before adding the fish. - 6
Carefully place the fish fillets in the hot skillet and fry for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. - 7
Serve the fried fish immediately, generously spooning the warm pandanus coconut sauce over the top.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest fish possible for the best flavor.
- ✓Pandanus extract is a good substitute if fresh leaves are unavailable, but use sparingly as it can be potent.
- ✓Serve with steamed taro or breadfruit for a complete meal.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice.
- Incorporate finely chopped onions or shallots into the sauce for added depth.