Otah (Grilled Spicy Fish Paste)

Unleash the authentic flavors of Southeast Asia with this Otah (Grilled Spicy Fish Paste) recipe—a tantalizing blend of fresh mackerel, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk, all wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection. This classic street food dish combines the heat of red chili peppers, the citrusy notes of lemongrass, and the earthiness of galangal and turmeric to create a complex, deeply satisfying flavor profile. The banana leaves not only infuse the fish paste with a subtle, smoky aroma but also keep it moist and tender while grilling. Perfect as an appetizer or served with steamed rice, Otah is a must-try for fans of bold, spicy cuisine. Ready in under an hour, it’s a delightful way to transport your taste buds straight to the bustling food stalls of Southeast Asia.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 g mackerel fillets
• 4 pieces red chili peppers
• 5 pieces shallots
• 4 pieces garlic cloves
• 2 pieces lemongrass stalks
• 20 g galangal
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 200 ml coconut milk
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 10 sheets banana leaves
• 10 pieces toothpicks

Directions

Step 1

Clean the mackerel fillets and remove any bones. Cut into small pieces and set aside.

Step 2

In a blender, combine red chili peppers, shallots, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, and blend into a smooth paste.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish pieces and spice paste. Add turmeric powder, coconut milk, tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Mix well until combined.

Step 4

Cut banana leaves into rectangular sheets approximately 15cm x 20cm. Soften them by placing over an open flame briefly, until pliable.

Step 5

Place a spoonful of the fish mixture onto the center of each banana leaf sheet and flatten it out slightly.

Step 6

Fold the banana leaf over the fish mixture creating a parcel and secure both ends with toothpicks.

Step 7

Preheat a grill to medium heat. Arrange banana leaf parcels on the grill, seam side up.

Step 8

Grill each side for about 10 minutes or until the banana leaves are charred and the fish is cooked through.

Step 9

Remove from grill and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade otah with steamed rice or as a standalone appetizer.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2125.2 grams (2125.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1463

Total Fat 71.20g	91%
Saturated Fat 17.00g	85%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 350mg	117%
Sodium 4144mg	180%
Total Carbohydrate 104.80g	38%
Dietary Fiber 8.80g	31%
Total Sugars 42.90g
Protein 104.50g	209%

Vitamin D 1800IU	9000%
Calcium 275mg	21%
Iron 24mg	132%
Potassium 3777mg	80%

*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: 43.4%

Protein: 28.3%

Carbs: 28.4%