Tafi Fish in Coconut-Mango-Basil Sauce
by Diana Opoti (@dianaopotieats)A light and flavorful baked Tafi fish dish with a tropical twist, featuring a coconut-mango-basil sauce.
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 1whole flat Tafi fish (cleaned and scaled)
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1tbspwhole coriander seeds
- 1tspchili flakes
- 1lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1sweet orange, sliced into rounds
- Water (for the water bath)
For the Coconut-Mango-Basil Sauce
- 1cupripe mango, chopped
- 1/2cupcoconut milk
- 1bundlefresh basil leaves
- 1clovegarlic, minced
- 1/4tspchili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1tbspolive oil
How to make Tafi Fish in Coconut-Mango-Basil Sauce
Marinate the Fish
Rinse the Tafi fish and pat it dry. Season both inside and out with salt and pepper. Rub the fish with olive oil, coriander seeds, chili flakes, and lemon juice. Let it marinate for 20 minutes.
Stuff and Bake the Fish
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Stuff the fish cavity with orange slices, then tie it securely with kitchen twine to hold the stuffing in place.
Place the fish in a baking dish and add enough water to create a shallow water bath (about 1/2 inch deep).
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the fish from the oven, untie, and transfer to a serving platter. Spoon the coconut-mango-basil sauce over the fish or serve it on the side. Garnish with fresh basil or additional orange slices if desired.
Tips & Tricks
For a more intense flavor, marinate the fish for longer, up to 1 hour.
Ensure the fish is fresh for the best taste and texture.