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Sheet-Pan Ikan Bakar with Sambal & Lime

Whole fish brushed with fiery sambal, roasted on banana leaves with charred tomatoes, lemongrass, and lime. Ready in 25 minutes—smoky, punchy, and Instagram gold.

Total time
25 min
Servings
2
Calories
340
Protein
42g
Sheet-Pan Ikan Bakar with Sambal & Lime
freshboldsatisfyingindonesianfishcrispytenderjuicy

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Pat fish dry inside and out with paper towels. Score the skin diagonally on both sides, 3 cuts per side, cutting only through skin.

  2. Step 2

    Mix sambal and oil in a small bowl. Rub the sambal paste inside the fish cavity and all over the outside. Season with salt and pepper inside.

  3. Step 3

    Place each banana leaf (or parchment) on a sheet pan. Lay one fish on each leaf, then stuff the cavity with lemongrass stalks, lime halves, and diced tomatoes.

  4. Step 4

    Fold banana leaves loosely around the fish to create a pocket, or fold parchment into a tent. Roast at 400°F for 18–22 minutes until flesh is opaque at the thickest part.

  5. Step 5

    Carefully open the packet (steam will rise). Top with fresh cilantro if using. Squeeze remaining lime juice over the top and serve straight from the banana leaf.

Tools you’ll need

  • sheet pan
  • small mixing bowl
  • paper towels
  • oven or toaster oven

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