Peixe Grelhado da Costa do Sol com Xima (Maputo Piri-Piri Lemon Grilled Fish) – Authentic Mozambique Recipe

Ingredients for Peixe Grelhado da Costa do Sol com Xima (Maputo Piri-Piri Lemon Grilled Fish) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) whole or filleted coastal white fish, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups smooth white cornmeal xima, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup garlicky sautéed greens
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with fresh lemon juice
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Mozambique seasoning (garlic, butter or olive oil, piri-piri chili, parsley)
• 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Whisk together fresh lemon juice, garlic, butter or olive oil, piri-piri chili, parsley, cooking oil, and sea salt in a bowl to form a fragrant Mozambique marinade.
2. Coat whole or filleted coastal white fish and smooth white cornmeal xima thoroughly in the seasoning and let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
3. Heat a cast-iron grill pan or heavy skillet over high heat until smoking hot.
4. Sear whole or filleted coastal white fish and smooth white cornmeal xima for 4–5 minutes per side until blistered, charred at the edges, and cooked through.
5. Transfer to a warm platter, scatter with garlicky sautéed greens, and serve immediately.