Betawi Grilled Fish Cake (betawi Otak-otak)

Betawi Grilled Fish Cake (Betawi Otak-Otak) is a traditional dish from the Betawi cuisine, which originated from the Betawi people of Jakarta, Indonesia. This flavorful and aromatic fish cake is a popular street food in the region, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Betawi Grilled Fish Cake (betawi Otak-otak)

Ingredients

  • 500g white fish fillets, such as snapper or mackerel
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 red chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves, finely shredded
  • 200ml thick coconut milk
  • Banana leaves for wrapping

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, blend the fish fillets, shallots, garlic, red chilies, turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and sugar until smooth.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the shredded kaffir lime leaves and coconut milk until well combined.
  3. Cut the banana leaves into 8-inch squares and briefly pass them over an open flame to make them pliable.
  4. Place a portion of the fish mixture onto each banana leaf square and fold to form a packet.
  5. Grill the packets over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish cake is cooked through and the banana leaves are slightly charred.
  6. Unwrap the fish cakes and serve hot with sambal or a squeeze of lime.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
15 minutes
Total time:
35 minutes
Cooking method
Grilling

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
150 per serving
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
8g
Fat
7g

Supplies

Grill Tongs Food processor Bowl

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring spoons

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestion: Serve the Betawi Grilled Fish Cake with steamed rice and a side of fresh cucumber and tomato salad.

Tips & tricks

Tip: Soak the banana leaves in water before using them to wrap the fish cakes to prevent them from burning too quickly on the grill.

Cost

$10