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Ternate Grilled Fish in Banana Leaf

A hallmark of Ternate (North Maluku, Indonesia), this grilled fish is marinated with garlic, shallots, chili, turmeric, coriander, and lime, then wrapped in banana leaves and char-grilled for a distinctively smoky and herbal flavor. It honors centuries-old maritime culinary traditions and is perfect served with rice and sambal.

Intermediate
45 min
2 servings
Ternate Grilled Fish in Banana Leaf

Ingredients

  • 1 whole snapper or grouper (approx. 500g)
  • 4 cloves garlic (12g)
  • 2 shallots (30g)
  • 1 red chili (5g)
  • •••See the full ingredient list and shop it in the app.

Method

  1. 1Clean and pat dry the whole fish. Make 2–3 shallow diagonal cuts on both sides.
  2. 2Blend or finely grind garlic, shallots, chili, turmeric, and coriander seeds into a paste.
  3. 3Mix the spice paste with salt, lime juice, and coconut oil to make the marinade.
  4. 4Rub the marinade all over the fish, including the scored flesh and cavity. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  5. ••• Cook along hands-free with timers and step-by-step guidance in the app.