RED SNAPPER FISH | Big Fish Grill Recipe Cooking in Village | Fish Fry in Clay | Ancient Cooking

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to prepare and grill a delicious red snapper fish using traditional methods. This ancient cooking technique involves wrapping the fish in banana leaves and silver foil, covering it in clay, and grilling it over a direct fire. This method not only enhances the flavor but also gives the fish a unique aroma that you won't want to miss.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

Before you start cooking, make sure you have everything you need:

• Ingredients:

  • Large red snapper fish
  • Hand-ground traditional masala (spices)
  • Banana leaves
  • Silver foil paper
  • Clay (for covering the fish)

• Tools:

  • Fire pit or grill
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife for cleaning the fish
  • Tongs for handling hot items

Practical Tips

• Ensure your fish is fresh for the best flavor.
• You can find banana leaves at local markets or Asian grocery stores.

Step 2: Prepare the Fish

Follow these steps to prepare your red snapper:

1. Clean the Fish:

   • Rinse the red snapper under cold water.
   • Remove any scales and guts if necessary.

2. Apply Masala:

   • In a mixing bowl, take your hand-ground traditional masala.
   • Rub the masala generously all over the fish, including inside the cavity.

Common Pitfalls

• Don’t skimp on the masala; it’s essential for flavor.
• Make sure to clean the fish thoroughly to avoid a fishy taste.

Step 3: Wrap the Fish

Wrapping the fish properly is crucial for the grilling process.

1. Prepare the Banana Leaves:

   • Cut a large piece of banana leaf to fit the fish.
   • Slightly heat the leaves over a flame to make them more pliable.

2. Wrap the Fish:

   • Place the marinated fish on the banana leaf.
   • Fold the leaf over the fish to cover it completely.

3. Add Silver Foil:

   • Wrap the banana leaf-covered fish in silver foil for added protection.

Practical Tips

• Ensure the wrap is tight to keep the juices in during grilling.
• You can use twine to secure the banana leaves if needed.

Step 4: Cover the Fish with Clay

This step is vital for achieving the desired cooking effect.

1. Prepare the Clay:

   • Use clean, edible clay. Avoid any contaminants.
   • Soak the clay in water to make it malleable.

2. Cover the Wrapped Fish:

   • Mold the clay around the wrapped fish, ensuring it is well-covered.
   • The clay will harden and create a seal during grilling.

Common Pitfalls

• Make sure there are no cracks in the clay covering to prevent juices from escaping.

Step 5: Grill the Fish

Grilling the fish is where the magic happens.

1. Prepare the Fire:

   • Build a fire in your fire pit or grill, allowing it to burn down to hot coals.

2. Place the Fish on the Grill:

   • Once the coals are ready, place the clay-covered fish directly on the fire.
   • Cover with a grill lid if you have one to retain heat.

3. Cooking Time:

   • Grill for approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the fish.

Practical Tips

• Monitor the heat to avoid burning the clay.
• If you have a thermometer, check that the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

You have now successfully cooked a traditional red snapper fish using ancient grilling techniques. The combination of spices, banana leaves, and clay results in a flavorful and aromatic dish. Serve your grilled fish with a side of fresh vegetables or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy the process and the delicious flavors of this unique cooking style!