Grilled Fish Cake (otak-otak)

Grilled Fish Cake (Otak-Otak) is a popular dish in Malay cuisine, known for its aromatic and spicy flavors. This recipe combines fresh fish, aromatic herbs, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection.

Grilled Fish Cake (otak-otak)

Ingredients

  • 500g white fish fillets, such as snapper or mackerel
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped lemongrass
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Banana leaves for wrapping

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, blend the fish fillets, coconut milk, red curry paste, tamarind paste, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, sugar, and salt until smooth.
  2. Cut the banana leaves into 8-inch squares and lightly char them over an open flame to make them pliable.
  3. Place a portion of the fish mixture onto each banana leaf square and fold to form a packet.
  4. Grill the packets over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning once, until the fish cakes are cooked through.
  5. Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of sambal for an authentic Malay meal.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
200 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
5g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Grill Tongs Knife Cutting board

Tools

Food processor Blender

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Serve with steamed rice and a side of sambal for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

Tips: Soak the banana leaves in water before charring them to prevent them from burning during grilling.

Cost

$15