Poisson Braisé à la Citronnelle
Aromatic grilled or pan-fried fish infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass. This dish highlights fresh fish, often marinated with herbs and spices, then cooked to perfection.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Whole fish(e.g., tilapia, sea bass, cleaned and scaled)
- 3 stalks Lemongrass stalks(tough outer layers removed, finely chopped or pounded)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 fruit Lime(juiced)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 tsp Chili flakes(optional)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Score the sides of the fish with a few diagonal cuts. This helps the marinade penetrate and cook evenly.
💡 Tip: Make sure not to cut too deep, just through the skin and flesh. - 2
In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, 2 tbsp of vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
💡 Tip: Pounding the lemongrass in a mortar and pestle will release more of its aromatic oils. - 3
Rub the marinade all over the fish, inside the cavity, and into the scores. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
💡 Tip: Marinating longer will result in a more intense flavor. - 4
Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. If grilling, preheat your grill.
- 5
Carefully place the marinated fish in the hot skillet or on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook fish in batches if necessary. - 6
Once cooked, remove the fish from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately with a side of rice, fried plantains, or a fresh salad.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest fish possible for the best flavor.
- ✓If you don't have fresh lemongrass, you can use 1-2 tablespoons of lemongrass paste.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
- ✓For a smoky flavor, consider wrapping the fish in banana leaves before grilling.
🔄 Variations
- Add thinly sliced onions or bell peppers to the marinade.
- Incorporate other herbs like thyme or basil into the marinade.
- Instead of grilling or pan-frying, the fish can be baked in the oven.