Balinese Ikan Bakar Grilled Fish
Recipe Introduction: Balinese Ikan Bakar, Anyone?
Fancy a trip to Bali without the airfare? Honestly, me too! This Balinese Ikan Bakar (Balinese Grilled Fish) recipe is the ticket.
It is a flavour explosion with spices that will transport your taste buds straight to the Indonesian shores. The star? A gorgeous spice paste slathered on fresh fish, then grilled to smoky perfection.
A Taste of Paradise: What is Ikan Bakar All About?
Ikan Bakar translates to "grilled fish" in Indonesian. This style of Grilled Seafood is common all over Indonesia. Our version, Balinese Ikan Bakar , is packed with aromatic spices.
It is fairly easy to make. It takes around 1 hour 45 minutes total. This recipe serves four hungry souls.
Why You'll Love This Ikan Bakar Recipe
This Authentic Indonesian Grill method isn't just tasty. The turmeric in the spice paste boasts amazing health benefits. Think anti inflammatory power! It’s the perfect centrepiece for a summer BBQ.
Or, just a simple weeknight dinner to spice things up. What makes this recipe special? It’s the Spice Paste for Fish .
This will really wow everyone.
Time to gather your ingredients!
Alright, let's get this show on the road! Balinese Ikan Bakar (Balinese Grilled Fish) , eh? Sounds like a right tasty holiday for the taste buds.
Think sunshine, spices, and a bit of that relaxed Bali vibe right in your kitchen. Let’s talk about what you will need for this explosion of Indonesian cuisine right here.
Ingredients & Equipment
Before we dive into making some proper Balinese Ikan Bakar (Balinese Grilled Fish) , let's gather our bits and bobs.
This isn't just about throwing ingredients together, it's about building flavour. Like a proper authentic Indonesian grill !
Main Ingredients
Right, here's the lowdown on what you'll need. I’ve included the measurements and all.
- For the Spice Paste (Bumbu):
- Shallots: 4 (about 80g / 2.8 oz )
- Garlic: 4 cloves (about 12g / 0.4 oz )
- Red Chilies: 2-3 (about 20g / 0.7 oz )
- Ginger: 1 inch (about 15g / 0.5 oz )
- Galangal: 1 inch (about 15g / 0.5 oz )
- Turmeric root: 1 inch (about 15g / 0.5 oz ) or 1 tsp ground turmeric
- Lemongrass: 1 stalk (about 4 inches )
- Shrimp paste (terasi): 1 tsp (about 5g / 0.2 oz )
- Coriander seeds: 1 tsp (about 2g / 0.07 oz )
- White pepper: 1/2 tsp (about 1g / 0.04 oz )
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp (about 15g / 0.5 oz )
- Salt: 1 tsp (about 5g / 0.2 oz )
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
- For the Fish:
- White fish fillets: 4 (6-8 ounce) (about 680-900g / 24-32 oz )
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
For the fish, go for something fresh. Snapper is top-notch. Barramundi also works, or even Sea Bass. Just make sure it smells of the sea and not, you know, fishy .
That's your quality indicator, my friend. You want the freshest grilled seafood possible!
Seasoning Notes
The spice paste, or bumbu , is where the magic happens. It’s the heart of Indonesian food . This is not just about heat; it's about layers of flavour.
The blend of shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, and chilies is essential. The lemongrass adds a citrusy zing. The shrimp paste, or terasi, gives it that umami kick.
Coriander and white pepper are your trusty aromatics.
If you haven’t got galangal, don't sweat it. Use a bit more ginger. Not quite the same, but close enough.
If you are veggie, skip the shrimp paste and maybe add a dash of soy sauce for depth. It’s all about adapting to your situation, innit? The spice paste for fish is so good!
Equipment Needed
You don't need a kitchen full of fancy gadgets.
- Food processor (or mortar and pestle)
- Grill (gas, charcoal, or grill pan)
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry brush (optional)
- Tongs
- Instant read thermometer (optional)
A food processor makes the spice paste a doddle. If you haven't got one, a mortar and pestle works just as well.
You'll need a grill for that lovely ikan bakar recipe char, and tongs for flipping the fish without making a mess.
Using how to grill fish Balinese style , you are just a few steps away of a taste of paradise
Right, now you have everything you need. Let's get cooking this amazing Balinese Grilled Fish Recipe !
Balinese Bliss: Get Ready for Balinese Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish)
Fancy a culinary trip to Bali? This Balinese Ikan Bakar is just the ticket! Honestly, this Indonesian Food is bursting with flavour.
We're talking sunshine in every bite. It’s easier than you think. It will let you experience the wonderful taste of Indonesian Cuisine and especially, Balinese cuisine.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place is Your Mate
First things first, get everything prepped. Chop your shallots , garlic, chilies, ginger, galangal, and turmeric. Slice the lemongrass nice and thin.
Got it? Good! This bit saves you a headache later. This prep also includes measuring out your spices, like coriander seeds and white pepper.
Safety first, too! Keep those knives sharp and those fingers out of the way.
Spice Up Your Life: The Secret's in the Paste
- Blend all the Spice Paste for Fish ingredients in a food processor until smooth. It should be a vibrant, aromatic concoction. This is what makes our Ikan Bakar Recipe so special.
- Slather that glorious paste all over your fish fillets. Make sure they're totally covered, like giving them a spicy little hug.
- Pop the fish in the fridge to marinate for at least 1 hour , or up to 4 hours . I once left it for 5. I was distracted by a cat video. Oops!
Grill Master Time: Sizzle and Serve
- Get your grill screaming medium high heat . Clean the grates and oil them, otherwise your fish will stick. Trust me on this one.
- Lay the marinated fish on the grill and cook for 4- 6 minutes per side. Look for those nice grill marks.
- The Grilled Seafood is ready when it flakes easily with a fork. The internal temp is 145° F ( 63° C) . Serve immediately with lime wedges and fresh herbs.
Pro Tips for Showstoppers
Want to avoid a grilling disaster? Don't over marinate the fish. The lime will actually cook it. Make sure your grill is hot.
This will prevent sticking. If you want to make things ahead, the spice paste keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days .
You can also freeze it for months. This amazing Authentic Indonesian Grill recipe is easy to make!
This Balinese Grilled Fish Recipe will wow everyone at your dinner. Get ready for the applause! This is How to Grill Fish Balinese Style .
Alright, so you're gonna try your hand at Balinese Ikan Bakar (Balinese Grilled Fish)? Ace! Here are a few extras to make sure you nail this Indonesian Food classic.
These little nuggets are for the best results.
Recipe Notes for the Perfect Balinese Ikan Bakar
Honestly, getting Grilled Seafood right can be a bit of a game. But, with these notes, you’ll be serving up a taste of Authentic Indonesian Grill goodness.
Plating Like a Pro and What to Serve with Your Grilled Fish
Think tropical! For plating, arrange the Balinese Ikan Bakar (Balinese Grilled Fish) on a vibrant banana leaf or a colourful plate.
Add a wedge of lime, some fresh coriander, and maybe even a little carved carrot flower if you're feeling fancy.
I reckon some Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice) on the side is cracking. Sambal Matah, that killer Balinese raw chili sauce, is another winner.
For drinks? Bintang beer, obviously! Or some chilled coconut water if you're not on the booze.
Storage Secrets for Leftover Grilled Fish
Right, so you've got some Ikan Bakar Recipe left over? Get it into an airtight container quick smart. Fridge it, and it’ll be good for about two days, tops.
Freezing Grilled Fish isn't the best idea as it can get a bit mushy when thawed. If you must , wrap it really well in cling film then foil, and use it within a month.
Reheating? Gently does it. The best way is in a low oven (about 275° F / 135° C ) until just warmed through.
Microwaving it is risky it can get tough.
Tweaking Your Balinese Grilled Fish Recipe
Fancy mixing things up a bit? You could chuck in a tin of coconut milk to make it super creamy.
Makes a great Spice Paste for Fish . Vegetarians? Just swap the fish for some firm tofu (press it first!), and you've got Tofu Bakar.
Just leave the shrimp paste or use soy sauce for the umami. If you can't find Galangal, use a bit more ginger.
It’s not the same, but it’s better than nothing! Remember that for Indonesian Cuisine .
Nutrition Nitty Gritty and Health Benefits
How to Grill Fish Balinese Style can be healthy. Each serving clocks in around 350 calories, with 40g protein, 15g fat, and 10g carbs.
The fish is rich in Omega-3 and protein, plus all those spices? Boom! Anti inflammatory heaven.
So there you have it. The secret sauce to Balinese Bliss: Authentic Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish) ! Don't be afraid to play around with it.
This Balinese Grilled Fish Recipe is forgiving. Get in the kitchen and have a go! You will nail that Ikan Bakar Recipe .
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of fish works best for Balinese Ikan Bakar (Balinese Grilled)?
For the most authentic experience, go for white fish like snapper, barramundi, or sea bass. These hold up well to grilling and absorb the lovely Balinese spice paste beautifully. But if you can't find those, don't fret! Any firm white fish fillet will do in a pinch - think cod or even mahi mahi.
I can't find some of the spices like galangal. Are there any substitutions I can make?
Finding all those exotic spices can be a bit of a treasure hunt, I know! If you're struggling to find galangal, a bit of extra ginger can work as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
As for the shrimp paste (terasi), you can skip it for a vegetarian option, or add a dash of soy sauce for a similar umami flavor.
How spicy is Balinese Ikan Bakar (Balinese Grilled) supposed to be, and how can I adjust the heat?
Balinese food is known for its bold flavors, and that often includes a bit of heat! But don't worry, you're in control. Start with fewer chilies, and remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
If you're a chili head, feel free to add more or use hotter varieties like bird's eye chilies just remember, a little goes a long way!
Can I prepare the Balinese spice paste ahead of time, and how long will it last?
Absolutely! Making the spice paste in advance is a great way to save time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will keep for up to 3 days. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together even more, resulting in an even tastier Balinese Ikan Bakar experience.
What's the best way to grill the fish to prevent it from sticking to the grill grates?
Sticky fish is a cook's worst nightmare! The key is to make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium high heat. Clean the grates thoroughly, then lightly oil them with a high heat cooking oil before placing the fish on the grill. Cooking spray also works well.
This creates a barrier and helps prevent the fish from sticking, resulting in perfectly grilled fillets every time.
How do I store leftover grilled fish, and how long will it last?
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator as soon as possible. It will generally last for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently to avoid drying it out a quick zap in the microwave or a warm pan works well.
Just remember to always check it is piping hot before eating.
Balinese Ikan Bakar Grilled Fish
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
