Lightly Spiced Fish Fajitas: A Bali-Inspired Recipe for Families
Discover the delightful combination of tropical flavors and kid-friendly preparation with this Bali-inspired recipe for lightly spiced fish fajitas.
Perfect for families visiting or living in Bali, these fajitas incorporate local spices and fresh ingredients to create a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Let’s dive into this flavor-packed culinary adventure!
Table of Contents
What are Lightly Spiced Fish Fajitas?
Lightly spiced fish fajitas are a twist on the classic Mexican dish, featuring marinated fish, fresh vegetables, and soft tortillas.
This Bali-inspired version integrates tropical flavors and local ingredients to create a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s perfect for kids.
Balinese Inspiration for Fish Fajitas
Bali’s rich culinary heritage inspires this recipe by incorporating local elements such as fresh lime, turmeric, and sambal.
These flavors balance the dish with a tropical twist, making it approachable for kids while staying true to Bali’s unique tastes.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Fajitas
For the Marinade:
400g white fish fillets (e.g., snapper or mahi-mahi)
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp grated ginger
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp coconut oil
Salt to taste
For the Fajitas:
8 small flour tortillas
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced pineapple (optional, for a tropical touch)
Garnishes:
Fresh coriander leaves
Lime wedges
Optional: Mild sambal for dipping
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fajitas
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix lime juice, grated ginger, turmeric powder, paprika, coconut oil, and salt.
Coat the fish fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
Step 2: Cook the Fish
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of coconut oil to the pan to prevent sticking.
Place the marinated fish fillets in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and have a golden crust.
Remove from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes before flaking the fish into bite-sized pieces using a fork.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another drizzle of coconut oil. Heat over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the onion. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
Season lightly with salt and stir well to incorporate the pan’s flavors.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
Place each tortilla on the skillet for 30 seconds per side until warm and pliable.
Stack the warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and warm.
Step 5: Assemble the Fajitas
Lay a tortilla flat and add a layer of shredded lettuce as the base.
Top with sautéed vegetables, flaked fish, and optional diced pineapple for a tropical twist.
Add fresh coriander leaves and squeeze a lime wedge over the filling for added zest.
Roll up the tortilla snugly, folding in the sides to secure the filling.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the assembled fajitas on a serving platter and garnish with lime wedges and a small side of mild sambal.
Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors of Bali!
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Serve on Banana Leaves: Place the assembled fajitas on banana leaves for an authentic tropical feel. Trim the leaves neatly for a polished presentation.
Use Edible Garnishes: Decorate the plate with edible flowers like marigold or frangipani, commonly used in Balinese cuisine.
Add a Tropical Side Dish: Pair the fajitas with a small bowl of Balinese sambal matah (raw chili condiment) for an extra burst of flavor.
Incorporate Local Dishware: Serve the meal in traditional Balinese wooden or ceramic plates to enhance the aesthetic.
Highlight Freshness: Arrange colorful fresh lime wedges and coriander sprigs on the side to emphasize the dish’s vibrant and fresh ingredients.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 60,000-80,000 (Approx. $4-$5.50 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories
310 kcal
Fat
12g
Cholestrol
40mg
Sodium
220mg
Carbohydrates
34g
Protein
18g
FAQs about Fish Fajitas in Bali
Q1: What makes these fajitas uniquely Balinese?
A: The use of local ingredients like sambal, fresh lime, and banana leaves for serving gives the fajitas a distinctly Balinese twist.
Q2: Can I substitute the tortillas with a local alternative?
A: Yes, you can use thinly rolled Balinese rice paper or even large cassava leaves for a unique local variation.
Q3: Where can I find authentic Balinese sambal for this recipe?
A: Sambal matah or sambal bajak can be purchased at local markets or made fresh using ingredients like shallots, chilies, and lemongrass.
Q4: How can I make the dish more festive for a Balinese celebration?
A: Serve the fajitas in a woven bamboo tray and add side dishes like coconut rice or grilled corn for a more elaborate feast.