Grilled Reef Fish with Coconut Rice

Name: Grilled Reef Fish with Coconut Rice
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Solomon Islands
Ingredients: Whole reef fish fillets — 4; Limes, juiced — 2; Garlic, crushed — 3 cloves; Salt and pepper, — to taste; Rice — 2 cups; Coconut milk — 2 cups; Water — 1 cup

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Whole reef fish fillets — 4
Limes, juiced — 2
Garlic, crushed — 3 cloves
Salt and pepper, — to taste
Rice — 2 cups
Coconut milk — 2 cups
Water — 1 cup

Method

Rub the fish fillets with lime juice, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper, and set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
Combine the rice, coconut milk, and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
Simmer the rice for 15 to 18 minutes, until tender and the liquid is absorbed.
While the rice cooks, grill the fish over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
Serve the grilled fish over a bed of the coconut rice.

Introduction: Fresh reef fish, grilled simply over coals and served alongside rice cooked in coconut milk, is a common midday meal in coastal villages throughout the Solomon Islands.

Cultural Background: Fresh reef fish, grilled simply over coals and served alongside rice cooked in coconut milk, is a common midday meal in coastal villages throughout the Solomon Islands.

Tips: Let the fish marinate the full 15 minutes for the best flavor, but avoid marinating much longer as the lime juice can start to break down the flesh.

Variations: Swap the fish for grilled eggplant slices to make a vegetarian version; the coconut rice is naturally vegan on its own.

Storage: Refrigerate rice and fish separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat the rice with a splash of water in a covered pot or microwave; warm the fish gently to avoid drying it out.

Nutrition: Approx. per serving: 480 kcal, 28 g protein, 16 g fat, 58 g carbohydrates, 1 g fibre.

FAQs:

Q: What fish works best if reef fish isn't available?

A: Any firm white fish fillet, such as snapper or mahi-mahi, is a good substitute.

Q: Can the rice be made ahead of time?

A: Yes, it reheats well with a splash of water or coconut milk stirred through to loosen it.