Ikan Bakar Bali (balinese-style Grilled Fish)

Ikan Bakar Bali is a traditional Balinese dish of grilled fish, marinated in a rich blend of spices and herbs. This recipe brings the flavors of Bali to your kitchen, creating a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a family meal.

Ikan Bakar Bali (balinese-style Grilled Fish)

Ingredients

  • 4 whole fish (such as snapper or mackerel), cleaned and scaled
  • 8 shallots, peeled
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 2 red chilies, seeded
  • 1 inch fresh turmeric, peeled
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled
  • 2 lemongrass stalks, white part only, thinly sliced
  • 4 kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
  • 2 tablespoons palm sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 4 banana leaves, cut into 4 large squares

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, blend shallots, garlic, red chilies, turmeric, ginger, and lemongrass into a smooth paste.
  2. Add kaffir lime leaves, tamarind paste, palm sugar, salt, and coconut oil to the paste. Blend until well combined.
  3. Make 3 diagonal cuts on each side of the fish and rub the spice paste all over the fish, including the cuts. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
  4. Wrap each fish in a banana leaf and secure with toothpicks.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the fish for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and the banana leaves are charred.
  6. Remove the banana leaves before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
10g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Grill Food processor Brush for marinating

Tools

Toothpicks

Serving suggestions

Serve the Ikan Bakar Bali with steamed rice, sambal matah, and a fresh salad for a complete Balinese meal.

Tips & tricks

For an authentic touch, grill the fish over charcoal for a smoky flavor.

Cost

$20