Poisson Braisé aux Légumes et Épices
Whole fish marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and herbs, stuffed with vegetables, and then grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Whole tilapia or sea bream(cleaned and scaled)
- 1 medium Onion(thinly sliced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(sliced (any color))
- 1 medium Tomato(sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 cm Fresh ginger(grated)
- 0.5 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped, optional)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 0.5 tsp Thyme(dried)
- 2 tbsp Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨‍🍳 Instructions
- 1
Make several diagonal slits on both sides of each fish.
đź’ˇ Tip: This helps the marinade penetrate the fish. - 2
In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped scotch bonnet (if using), lemon juice, vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, curry powder, and thyme. Mix thoroughly to create the spice paste.
đź’ˇ Tip: Wear gloves when handling scotch bonnet peppers. - 3
Rub the spice paste all over the fish, ensuring it gets into the slits and cavities. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- 4
Stuff the cavities of each fish with slices of onion, bell pepper, and tomato.
đź’ˇ Tip: Don't overstuff, allow for even cooking. - 5
Preheat your grill or prepare a charcoal fire for medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
đź’ˇ Tip: Ensure the fish won't stick by oiling the grates well. - 6
Carefully place the stuffed fish on the grill. Grill for about 15 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through, flakes easily with a fork, and has grill marks.
đź’ˇ Tip: Use a fish spatula to carefully turn the fish. - 7
Remove the fish from the grill, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
đź’ˇ Tip: Serve with a side of rice or fried plantains.
đź’ˇ Pro Tips
- âś“If grilling, wrap the fish loosely in banana leaves or foil to keep it moist and prevent direct contact with flames.
- âś“Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add sliced leeks or scallions to the vegetable stuffing.
- Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika into the spice paste for a smoky depth.