Banana Leaf Wrapped Sambal Halibut

Banana Leaf Wrapped Sambal Halibut, savory and spicy goodness in a package that is sure to spice up your meals!

Banana Leaf Wrapped Sambal Halibut, a variation of the Sambal Chilli Stingray which is one of the best food that every Singaporean enjoy is from the hawker centers, particularly the seafood stalls. The Sambal Chili Stingray, or more commonly known here as skate fish, wrapped in banana leaf and cooked over a barbecue grill, is one of my favorite dishes.
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Stingray is rather difficult to get here in Houston so I replaced it with halibut. And I baked it in the oven for ease of preparation.

Banana Leaf Wrapped Sambal Halibut
by Miss Crumbs A Lot, inspired by "Simply Ming in Your Kitchen"

Recipe
Ingredients
4 pieces Halibut Fillets (approx. 6 oz each, center cut)
2 Red Chilies (approx. 4 oz)
1 oz Ginger
1/2 Red Onion (approx. 8 oz)
2 tbsp Fish Sauce
1 Lime (juiced)
1 oz Belachan (Dried Shrimp Paste)
2 tbsp Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper
4 Banana Leaves
Toothpicks (soaked in water) 

Cooking Method
1. Blanch banana leaves in hot water for a minute to soften the leaves so it will not break or tear when you wrap the fish fillets later. Dry and set aside.
2. In a food processor, blend the red chillies, ginger, red onion, lime juice and fish sauce until a smooth paste is formed. Set aside.
3. In a wok, toast the belachan and using a spatula or wooden spoon, break up the belachan until it resembles bread crumbs. Toast for a few minutes until it is fragrant.
4. Add the chili paste and mix well, stir fry until it is slightly dry.
5. Add the oil and stir fry for a few more minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. Place halibut fillet on a piece of banana leaf and smear the sambal chili paste on the top of the fillet. Carefully wrap the fillet up in the banana leaf by folding in the sides to enclose the fillets. Secure with toothpicks.
7. Bake at 400 degrees F for 8 to 10 min.
8. Open the packages when ready to serve and serve with lime wedges on the side, if desired.