Heart-Healthy Ikan Bakar

Delight your taste buds with this Heart-Healthy Ikan Bakar, a tantalizing grilled fish recipe that combines bold Southeast Asian flavors with a nutritious twist. Featuring a whole white fish like snapper or barramundi, this dish is marinated in an aromatic blend of turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, and lime juice, offering an irresistible mix of zesty and earthy tones. Low-sodium soy sauce and a hint of coconut oil ensure it stays heart-smart while enhancing its natural flavors. Grilled to perfection—wrapped in fragrant banana leaves for added depth, if desired—this dish is as wholesome as it is flavorful. Perfect for a light, protein-packed meal, serve it with steamed vegetables or brown rice for a vibrant, guilt-free dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or an impressive main course, this ikan bakar recipe will transport your palate to the shores of Southeast Asia.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 kg whole firm white fish (e.g., snapper or barramundi), cleaned and scaled
• 1 tablespoon fresh turmeric root, grated
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
• 4 shallots, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 red chili, deseeded and chopped (optional)
• 2 sheets banana leaves (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Score the fish with three diagonal cuts on each side to allow the marinade to penetrate.

Step 2

In a blender or food processor, combine the turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, shallots, garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, coconut oil, and chili, then blend until a smooth paste is formed.

Step 3

Rub the marinade generously over the entire fish, ensuring it goes into the slits as well. Let the fish marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the grill.

Step 4

If using banana leaves, rinse and dry them, then use them to wrap the marinated fish entirely, securing with toothpicks if necessary. This additional step is both decorative and functional, adding a distinct aroma.

Step 5

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean, then lightly oil them to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Place the fish directly on the grill. Cook for 12-15 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. If wrapped in banana leaves, the leaves will char slightly, imparting a smoky flavor.

Step 7

Transfer the fish to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges and steamed vegetables or brown rice for a heart-healthy meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1620.9 grams (1620.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1508

Total Fat 35.00g	45%
Saturated Fat 16.70g	84%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.30g
Cholesterol 500mg	167%
Sodium 3343mg	145%
Total Carbohydrate 96.20g	35%
Dietary Fiber 16.90g	60%
Total Sugars 35.30g
Protein 219.10g	438%

Vitamin D 2000IU	10000%
Calcium 420mg	32%
Iron 18mg	99%
Potassium 5162mg	110%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 20.0%

Protein: 55.6%

Carbs: 24.4%