Ikan Bakar (Southeast Asian Grilled Fish)

5 steps. Take it one step at a time.

1. 01

   Clean the fish, score both sides

   Clean the fish, score both sides with 3-4 diagonal cuts. Rub the fish with lime juice and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes.

   15 min
2. 02

   Using a blender or mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic, red chilies

   Using a blender or mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic, red chilies, ginger, turmeric, candlenuts, and shrimp paste into a smooth spice paste.

3. 03

   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil

   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan and sauté the spice paste until fragrant and the oil starts to separate. Add the sweet soy sauce and mix well. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

   5 min
4. 04

   Generously coat the fish

   Generously coat the fish with the cooked spice paste, ensuring the paste gets into the scored slits. Marinate for at least 10 minutes.

   10 min
5. 05

   Prepare your grill

   Prepare your grill for medium-high heat (around 400°F (204°C)). Brush the grill with oil. Grill the fish for 7-10 minutes per side, basting with any leftover sauce, until the skin is charred and the meat is opaque and flaky.

   20 min