Tongan Grilled Fish with Lime and Chili
Fresh white fish fillets marinated in a vibrant blend of lime juice, chili, garlic, and ginger, then grilled to perfection, offering a zesty and slightly spicy island flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 pieces White fish fillets(such as snapper, mahi-mahi, or cod, about 150-200g each)
- 4 tablespoons Lime juice(freshly squeezed)
- 1 medium Red chili(finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat))
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 teaspoon Ginger(grated fresh)
- 2 tablespoons Coconut oil(melted)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in a shallow dish.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the fish is dry helps with searing and prevents sticking. - 2
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, chopped red chili, minced garlic, grated ginger, melted coconut oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
💡 Tip: Adjust chili amount based on your spice preference. - 3
Pour the marinade over the fish fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- 4
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: A clean and oiled grill is crucial for easy fish removal. - 5
Carefully place the marinated fish fillets onto the hot grill. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking, as fish can become dry quickly. - 6
Remove the fish from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest fish possible for the best flavor.
- ✓If grilling indoors, a grill pan on the stovetop works well.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the grill; cook in batches if necessary.
🔄 Variations
- Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
- Include a pinch of ground cumin or coriander in the marinade for added depth.
- Serve with a side of grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.