| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 365 | 17g | 3g | 4g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 2g | 43g | 3.8g |
Not far from the vibrant salsa clubs and sandy beaches of Miami, in my very own kitchen, I find immense joy in fusing together the diverse flavors of my roots. And, it brings me immense pleasure to share one of my favourite seafood recipes, the Grilled Fish with Njangsa Spice Rub. This delightful dish is a nod to my Cuban origins, intensifying the simple freshness of fish with an exotic spice blend, thence creating a culinary experience that would thrill any adventurous palate.
Enthralling Flavours and Health Benefits
The majesty of the Grilled Fish with Njangsa Spice Rub recipe lies not only in its vibrant flavours, but also in its nutritious properties. The primary ingredient, Njangsa seeds, offers an aromatic, nutty element to the dish. Cultivated in tropical West Africa, Njangsa seeds have many potential health benefits due to their high antioxidant content. That, along with the goodness of lean protein from the fish, and a selection of vegetables, makes this dish a well-balanced, healthy meal choice.
Cooking and Complementary Dishes
Cooking the fish in a blend of crushed Njangsa seeds, dried thyme, paprika and a hint of cayenne pepper (if you fancy a kick) ensues an intoxicating aroma. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving lifts the dish, adding a bright citrusy burst that harmonises all the flavours.
This dish finds its brethren in other delectable seafood options like the Spanish Caldo de Mariscos (Seafood Broth) or the Cuban Ceviche, both sharing the common characteristic of embracing and elevating the natural flavours of the sea’s bounty. They could make a sumptuous spread when served alongside each other.
Pleasure in Creation
In many ways, the ritual of making Grilled Fish with Njangsa Spice Rub reflects my love for dance. There’s a rhythm to it, a balance between each ingredient. And just like each twirl and sway brings a dance to life, the perfect blend of spices brings a fascinating depth to this dish. That is exactly why my kitchen often feels like a dance floor, with my dishes being the most tantalizing dance partners.
What You’ll Need
- 6 fish fillets
- 1 cup Njangsa seeds, crushed
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons of ground black pepper
- 1 large lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons of salt
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing the spice rub for the fish. Combine the crushed Njangsa seeds, paprika, dried thyme, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, minced garlic, and half of the lemon juice in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step Two
Next, take your fish fillets and applying the spice rub generously on both sides. Ensure that the entire surface of the fillets is covered with the spice rub. Let the fillets sit and marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to fully absorb the flavors of the spices.
Step Three
While the fish is marinating, you can start preparing the grilled vegetables. Heat up the olive oil in a large saucepan. Once hot, add in the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. After this, add in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become tender and start to break down.
Step Four
Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the marinated fish fillets on the grill. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be sure to flip the fish carefully to prevent it from breaking apart.
Step Five
Once the fish is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with the rest of the lemon juice for an added tangy flavor. Serve the grilled fish with the sautéed onions and tomatoes on the side or on top of the fish, depending on your preference.
Step Six
Lastly, garnish your grilled fish with any left-over spice rub and serve hot. Enjoy your Grilled Fish with Njangsa Spice Rub!
