Entree: British Indian Ocean Territory – National Cuisine – Tandoori Fish (Firm white fish marinated in spiced yogurt and roasted in tandoori style)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 12 min

Additional 30 min

Total 57 min

Ingredients

- 4 fish fillets, approx. 6 oz (170 g) each
- 1 cup (240 g) plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) tandoori masala
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp (5 ml) ground cumin
- 1 tsp (5 ml) ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Kashmiri red chili powder or regular paprika for color
- 1 tsp (5 ml) salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil for basting
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Pat the fish fillets dry and make 2 shallow diagonal slashes on each fillet to help the marinade penetrate.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, 2 tbsp oil, tandoori masala, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Coat each fillet thoroughly with the yogurt-spice mixture, rubbing it into the slashes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 3 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) with the top rack in place for broiling, or prepare a hot grill. If using an oven, place a rack on a rimmed baking sheet and line with foil.
5. Arrange the marinated fillets on the rack or grill grates. If broiling, place the baking sheet under the broiler about 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) from the heat source.
6. Cook for 8–12 minutes, turning once if grilling, until fish is opaque and flakes easily (internal temperature about 145°F/63°C). If broiling, watch closely to achieve light charring without drying.
7. During the last 1–2 minutes, brush with 1 tbsp (15 ml) oil and, if desired, briefly broil or grill to develop a slight char.
8. Transfer to a platter, garnish with chopped cilantro and lemon wedges, and serve immediately with rice or flatbreads.