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Inihaw na Isda

A delicious Filipino grilled fish dish that boasts a smoky flavor and a crispy skin while remaining juicy inside. Perfect for any gathering or family meal.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino
Keyword: Filipino Recipe, Grilled Fish, Inihaw na Isda, Sawsawan, Seafood
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

Fish and Marinade

  • 4 pieces whole fish (tilapia or bangus) Choose fresh fish for best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup calamansi or lemon juice For the marinade.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce For the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon salt To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper To taste.
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed Optional, for added flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Optional, for added flavor.

Dipping Sauce (Sawsawan)

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce For the dipping sauce.
  • 1 piece calamansi or lemon, juiced To add tang to the dipping sauce.
  • 1 large tomato, chopped For color and flavor.
  • 1 small red onion, chopped For flavor.
  • 1 piece chili, sliced Add for spice based on preference.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Choose fresh fish with clear eyes, bright gills, and a clean smell.
  • Prepare the marinade by mixing calamansi juice, soy sauce, salt, pepper, garlic, and onion.
  • Rub the marinade all over the fish and let it sit for 30 minutes in a resealable bag in the fridge.

Grilling

  • Preheat the grill until coals are gray and hot or heat a grill pan.
  • Rub a little oil on the grill grate or the fish skin.
  • Place the marinated fish on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
  • Use a wide spatula for flipping to avoid breaking the fish.

Serving

  • Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing soy sauce, calamansi juice, chopped tomatoes, red onions, and chili.
  • Serve grilled fish hot, with the dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Serve with garlic fried rice for a traditional touch. For a fun twist, create a sawsawan bar with various dipping ingredients for guests to customize their flavors.