Fish Tandoori
Fish Tandoori Recipe from Trinidad and Tobago
Introduction
Fish Tandoori is a popular Indian dish that features marinated fish cooked to perfection. The combination of spices and yogurt creates a flavorful and tender fish that is sure to impress your taste buds.
History
Tandoori dishes originated in the Indian subcontinent, with the traditional method of cooking in a tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven. The use of yogurt and spices in marinades is a common practice in Indian cuisine, creating dishes with bold flavors and tender textures.
Ingredients
- 1 large whole fish (about 2 lb (907 g))
- 1.5 tbsp lime juice
- salt to taste
- 1 cup whipped yogurt (curd)
- 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- 1 tsp green chili paste
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp tomato sauce
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 0.5 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp tandoori masala powder
- oil for brushing the fish
How to prepare
- Clean the fish and make slanting gashes on each side, ensuring the fish remains whole.
- Place the fish in a bowl and marinate it with the combined masala for approximately 4 hours.
- Prepare a baking dish and lightly brush the bottom with oil. Carefully place the fish in the center of the dish and brush the top with oil.
- Pour any remaining marinade into the dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) until the fish is cooked and turns golden brown on top.
- Serve the dish garnished with coriander leaves and lemon wedges.
Variations
- Try using different types of fish such as salmon or tilapia for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Experiment with adding additional spices or herbs to the marinade for a personalized flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to marinate the fish for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Brushing the fish with oil before baking helps to keep it moist and adds a crispy texture to the dish.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fish Tandoori with naan bread, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for whipped curd.
- Lemon juice can be used instead of lime juice.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the fish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Fish Tandoori on a bed of lettuce or garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Fish Tandoori with a side of cucumber raita or mint chutney for a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
5g per serving
Fats
12g per serving
Proteins
25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Rich in Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium
Alergens
Contains dairy (yogurt)
Summary
Fish Tandoori is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal.
Summary
Fish Tandoori is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal. With a flavorful marinade and tender fish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, during one of my trips to India, that I stumbled upon the most delicious Fish Tandoori I had ever tasted. The aroma of the spices, the tender texture of the fish, and the perfect balance of flavors had me hooked from the first bite.
I was staying with a dear friend in Mumbai, who was a fantastic cook herself. She had learned the art of Indian cuisine from her grandmother, who was known for her traditional recipes passed down through generations. One evening, my friend invited me to join her in preparing dinner, and to my delight, she decided to make her famous Fish Tandoori.
As we gathered the ingredients and began the preparations, I watched in awe as she effortlessly mixed spices, marinated the fish, and expertly grilled it to perfection. I asked her about the recipe, and she smiled as she shared the story of how she had learned to make it.
She told me that when she was a young girl, her grandmother would take her to the local market to pick out the freshest fish for their meals. They would then return home, where her grandmother would patiently teach her the art of marinating and grilling the fish in the traditional Tandoori style.
With each passing year, my friend honed her skills and perfected the recipe, adding her own unique touch to it. She explained that the key to a delicious Fish Tandoori lies in the quality of the ingredients, the careful balance of spices, and the love and attention put into its preparation.
As we sat down to enjoy the meal that evening, I savored every bite, savoring the memories of my time in India and the wonderful flavors that surrounded me. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself, so that I could share it with my own family and friends back home.
When I returned from my trip, I set out on a mission to recreate the Fish Tandoori recipe that had captured my heart. I reached out to my friend for guidance, and she graciously shared her recipe with me, along with some invaluable tips and tricks she had picked up along the way.
I gathered the necessary ingredients, prepared the marinade, and carefully grilled the fish to perfection. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that evening in Mumbai, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of India. The flavors were just as I remembered – bold, aromatic, and utterly delicious.
Over the years, I have continued to make Fish Tandoori for my family and friends, sharing the recipe and passing on the tradition to the next generation. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of my dear friend in Mumbai, her grandmother’s teachings, and the joy that comes from creating and sharing a meal made with love.
As I sit down to write this story, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and memories that have shaped my love for cooking. The recipe for Fish Tandoori may have originated in India, but it has found a special place in my heart and in the hearts of those I have shared it with.
And so, I continue to cook, to learn, and to pass on the traditions and recipes that have brought me so much joy over the years. For me, cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also about nourishing the soul – and there is no greater joy than sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love.
Categories
| Chile Leaf Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Masala Recipes | Trinidadian Meat Dishes | Trinidadian Recipes | Yogurt Recipes |