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Tropical Grouper with Spicy Coconut

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  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Caribbean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A vibrant dish featuring tender grouper fillets enveloped in a creamy, spicy coconut sauce, perfect for busy weeknight meals.


Ingredients

  • 4 grouper fillets, skin removed, about 6 ounces each
  • 1 cup canned coconut milk, full-fat for richness
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar, packed
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish, roughly chopped
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon fish sauce for extra umami


Instructions

  1. Begin by warming your preferred oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for approximately three minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Then add minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red chili, stirring for about one minute or until fragrant.
  4. Pour the coconut milk into the skillet, followed by lime juice and brown sugar. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Taste the blend, adjusting with salt, black pepper, and an optional splash of fish sauce.
  6. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat while you prepare the grouper fillets.
  7. Pat each fillet dry using a paper towel, then season gently with salt and pepper.
  8. Heat a separate pan over medium-high heat with a bit of oil.
  9. Cook each grouper fillet for about 3–4 minutes per side until opaque and flaky.
  10. Move the grouper fillets into the coconut sauce pan and let them warm for a minute or two.
  11. Spoon the sauce over the fish and finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, prep the coconut sauce in advance to allow the tastes to meld overnight.