Entree: Wallis and Futuna – National Cuisine – Poisson Grillé (Charcoal-grilled whole fish seasoned with citrus, coconut and island herbs)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 15 min

Additional 45 min

Total 1 hr 10 min

Ingredients

- 2 whole reef fish (red snapper or similar), approx. 1.25 lb (570 g) each, cleaned and scaled
- 1 cup (240 ml) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped, about 3 oz (85 g)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh cilantro or culantro
- 1 tsp (5 g) sea salt
- 1/2 tsp (1.5 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small fresh chili, sliced (optional)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) brown sugar or palm sugar
- 2 banana leaves or large foil sheets for grilling (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Rinse the fish, pat dry with paper towels, and make 2–3 diagonal slashes on each side to allow marinade penetration.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, chopped onion, grated ginger, chopped cilantro, salt, pepper, sliced chili if using, and brown sugar until combined.
3. Place the fish in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them, rubbing into the slashes and cavity. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes (do not exceed 2 hours for very fresh fish).
4. Prepare a hot grill over medium-high heat and oil the grates. If using banana leaves, briefly pass them over the flame to make them pliable, then place a leaf or foil on the grill.
5. Remove excess marinade from the fish and place them on the banana leaf or directly on the grill. Grill 6–8 minutes per side (depending on thickness), basting once with reserved marinade, until the skin is charred in spots and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
6. Transfer the grilled fish to a platter, squeeze fresh lime wedges over the top, and garnish with extra chopped cilantro.
7. Serve immediately with steamed taro, cassava, or rice and a simple green salad or chopped fresh vegetables.