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Otak-otak

Indonesian · Appetizer

A fragrant Southeast Asian grilled fish cake made from ground fish meat mixed with aromatic spices and coconut milk, traditionally wrapped in banana leaves for a smoky, charred flavor.

IntermediateHigh proteinGluten free
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Otak-otak — recipe cover
35 minA little patience, a lot of flavor
Prep time20 min
Cook time15 min
Servings4 people
DifficultyIntermediate
Let's make something good

How to make it

5 steps. Take it one step at a time.

  1. Blend the shallots, garlic, chili paste, and turmeric

    In a food processor, blend the shallots, garlic, chili paste, and turmeric into a smooth paste.

  2. Combine the ground fish

    Combine the ground fish with the spice paste. Add egg whites, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the paste becomes slightly sticky.

  3. Gradually fold in the tapioca starch

    Gradually fold in the tapioca starch until the mixture is well incorporated and thick.

  4. Place about 2 tablespoons of the fish mixture

    Place about 2 tablespoons of the fish mixture in the center of a banana leaf. Roll the leaf into a cylinder and secure both ends with toothpicks or staples.

  5. Grill the parcels

    Grill the parcels on a charcoal grill or a dry pan over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the leaves are charred and the fish inside is firm.

    14 min

A little kitchen wisdom

Using fresh mackerel (tenggiri) provides the best texture. If banana leaves are unavailable, you can use parchment paper, though you will lose the signature smoky aroma.

What you'll need

Food processorCharcoal grill or grill panToothpicks
Keep the good going

For now. And for later.

Make it ahead

The fish paste can be made and kept in the fridge. Wrapped but uncooked parcels can also be refrigerated.

Store & enjoy

Store leftover grilled Otak-otak in an airtight container. Steam for 5 minutes or microwave for 1 minute until warm.

Allergens

Contains fish, eggs.

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An AI-created recipe from the EZdish collection. Ingredient quantities and techniques have not been independently kitchen-tested. Published on this website . Updated . First published in the EZdish collection .

Otak-otak
Step 1 of 5

Blend the shallots, garlic, chili paste, and turmeric

In a food processor, blend the shallots, garlic, chili paste, and turmeric into a smooth paste.