| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 300 | 10g | 2g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 1g | 40g | 0.7g |
As a born and bred New Yorker, I’ve been exposed to a plethora of global cuisines. However, my absolute favorite to experiment with is the zesty and bold flavors of African cuisine. The recipe I want to share with you today is none other than the delightful Grilled Fish with Alligator Pepper Sauce. A tribute to the fiery flavors of West Africa, this dish beautifully marries the lightness of white fish with the heat of alligator pepper.
Health Benefits and Flavor Profile
What I love about this recipe, besides the fact it is incredibly delicious, is the health benefits it offers. The white fish fillets provide an exceptional balance of lean protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to improving heart health. The alligator pepper, besides giving the dish its bold flavor, has been known to aid digestion too. The addition of honey not only sweetens the sauce but offers antioxidant properties, making this a flavorful yet healthy dish.
If you’re a fan of citrus, the sauce will surely satisfy your craving. The mix of orange and lime juice gives the dish a refreshing, zesty undertone that cuts through the heat of the alligator pepper. It is a symphony of tropical flavors, excellent for a summer treat!
An Unforgettable Culinary Experience
The Grilled Fish with Alligator Pepper Sauce has a similar taste profile to various jerk and peri-peri dishes. But, the citrus twist and distinctive flavor of the alligator pepper set this recipe apart. For folks who enjoy a spicy kick in their meal, this one will become a trusty go-to.
This dish can easily pair with a side of sautéed vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad. Add in a glass of a light, Sauvignon Blanc to cool down the heat and amplify the citrus flavors of the meal, and you will be set for a tasteful dinner.
Whether you are a fan of African cuisine or just an adventurous eater, the Grilled Fish with Alligator Pepper Sauce will not disappoint. It’s flavorsome, healthful, and a fantastic testament to the vibrant African culinary scene.
What You’ll Need
- 6 white fish fillets
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons of alligator pepper, ground
- 1 cup of orange juice
- 1/4 cup of lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 6 sprigs of fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Step One
Season the white fish fillets on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure that the seasoning is properly rubbed into the fillets.
Step Two
Heat up the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned fish fillets and cook them until they are golden brown on both sides and flake easily with a fork. This should take about 4-5 minutes on each side.
Step Three
Remove the cooked fish fillets from the skillet and set them aside. Keep them warm.
Step Four
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and minced ginger. Sauté this mixture over medium heat until the garlic and ginger are golden brown.
Step Five
Add the ground alligator pepper to the skillet and stir for about a minute to enable the flavors meld together.
Step Six
Pour in the orange juice and lime juice. Stir and allow the mixture to come to a simmer.
Step Seven
Stir in the tablespoon of honey. This will give the sauce a sweet and tangy flavor.
Step Eight
To thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch with the 2 tablespoons of water until it forms a smooth paste. Add this paste to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
Step Nine
Return the grilled fish to the skillet and baste them with the alligator pepper sauce. Let this cook on low heat for about two minutes to allow the fish to absorb some of the flavors from the sauce.
Step Ten
Serve the grilled fish with generous amounts of the alligator pepper sauce drizzled over it. Garnish each fillet with a sprig of fresh cilantro before serving.
