Chris & Dawn's Whole Red Snapper

This beautiful St Lucian fish dish is an exotic treat for the tastebuds. Chris and Dawn first tried red snapper on their Caribbean honeymoon, and we've recreated it for them here – lovingly marinated overnight, then roasted in the oven, complete with all the trimmings! The scotch bonnets are, I think, an essential part of the marinade – if you're feeling (really) brave, leave the seeds in, but equally, if you want to be cautious, you could just use half the amount of chilli. Best enjoyed in the sun, with a loved one and a glass of something cold.

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Preparing Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Served Person: 2

Carbohydrate 55.3501400000102 g
Cholesterol 0.375 mg
Fat 2.555274999775 g
Fiber 4.28599997878075 g
Protein 6.73675 g
Saturated Fat 0.673827499968932 g
Serving Size 1 1 Serving (717g)
Sodium 666.799812500507 mg
Sugar 51.0641400212295 g
Trans Fat 0.358003124993907 g
Calories 270 calories

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Step-by-step

For the marinade, deseed the Scotch bonnet and pepper, peel the garlic, and trim and quarter the spring onions, then add to the blender with the remaining marinade ingredients, melting the coconut oil before adding. Whiz to a paste, loosening with a good splash of water, if needed.
With a sharp knife, score the fish all over on both sides, about 1cm deep. Pour over the marinade, rubbing it into the slashes you've made, then leave in the fridge for at least 4 hours to marinate.
For the salsa, deseed and finely chop the peppers. Cut a cross into the bottom of the tomatoes, plunge into boiling water for 30 seconds, then peel away the skin, and finely chop.
Peel and finely chop the red onion and garlic. Trim the cucumber and finely chop along with most of the coriander (stalks and all).
Chop and mix everything together in a bowl, stir in the vinegar and hot pepper sauce, then season to perfection.
For the beignets, chop the breadfruit into large wedges and cook in boiling salted water with the lid ajar for 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender, then drain. Remove the skin and core, then mash while hot with a knob of butter. Add 2 tablespoons of the salsa, then season with sea salt and black pepper.
Shape heaped teaspoons of the mixture into balls, then roll in the breadcrumbs and place on a tray. Put aside.
To cook the fish, preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/gas 7, and preheat a large non-stick roasting tray or ovenproof frying pan over a high heat. For the beignets, half-fill a large sturdy pan with vegetable oil, and gently bring up to 180°C (or use a deep-fryer).
Place the snapper into the hot tray or pan and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until coloured and charred, then place in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until cooked through. To test if it’s done, insert a fork or small, sharp knife into the thickest part (just behind the head), and the fish should flake away.
Meanwhile, peel the plantain and slice in half lengthways. Place a frying pan on a medium–high heat, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then cook the plantain for 2 minutes on each side, or until golden, then add a pinch of salt and pepper.
Carefully drop 6 beignets into the hot vegetable oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden, crisp and they rise to the surface, then drain on kitchen paper (freeze the rest before frying, for another day).
Serve the fish with the plantain, salsa and beignets. Halve and destone the avocado, then scoop over little balls or teaspoons, and finish with a scattering of coriander leaves.

A Taste of Paradise: Chris & Dawn's Caribbean Red Snapper

The aroma of the Caribbean still clings to my memory, a heady mix of salty air, blooming hibiscus, and the tantalizing scent of spices. It's a scent that instantly transports me back to that unforgettable honeymoon trip with my husband, Chris. One of the most memorable meals we shared was a simply stunning red snapper, prepared with a vibrant marinade and served alongside a bright, refreshing salsa. This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a taste of our journey, our love story, and the magic of the Caribbean. It's a recipe I eagerly share, hoping it brings a piece of that paradise to your table.

The fish itself is remarkably simple, a beautiful whole red snapper, sourced sustainably, of course – because respecting the environment is just as important to me as creating a delicious meal. The secret, I’ve found, lies in the marinade. It’s a bold blend of scotch bonnet peppers (handle with care, friends!), garlic, spring onions, and fragrant herbs. Don’t be afraid of the chilli; the intensity can be adjusted to your liking. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, leave the seeds in for a fiery kick. However, if you prefer a milder taste, you can simply use half the amount. I always recommend letting the snapper marinate for at least four hours, or even better, overnight – this allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the delicate flesh of the fish.

Beyond the star of the show, this recipe offers a symphony of complementary flavors and textures. The salsa is a joyful explosion of color and taste, a medley of finely chopped peppers, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh coriander. A squeeze of white wine vinegar and a dash of West Indian hot pepper sauce add a bright, tangy finish that beautifully contrasts the richness of the snapper. The crispy breadfruit beignets provide a delightful textural contrast, their soft, buttery interior encased in a light and golden crust. Finally, the sweet plantain and creamy avocado add the perfect finishing touches, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

This is more than just a recipe; it’s a memory, a feeling, a journey. It’s the taste of a honeymoon in paradise, recreated in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, put on some upbeat Caribbean music, and prepare to be transported. Trust me, you’ll be creating more than just a delicious meal; you’ll be crafting a moment to savor, a story to tell, a taste of paradise to share.

Serving Suggestion: Best served on a sunny afternoon, accompanied by a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail, and shared with loved ones. Close your eyes, imagine yourself on a Caribbean beach, and let the flavors take you away.

Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of peppers, herbs, or even add some diced mango to your salsa for an extra tropical twist. This is your recipe to adapt and enjoy in your own way!