Natinombur (Grilled Fish with Spicy Sauce) Recipe | Authentic Batak Cuisine

Ingredients

• 2 whole mackerel (about 1.5 lbs each), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 6 shallots, peeled
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 8 red Thai chilies (adjust to taste)
• 2 large tomatoes, quartered
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
• 1-inch piece fresh turmeric, peeled (or 1 teaspoon ground turmeric)
• 2 stalks lemongrass, white part only, finely sliced
• 1 teaspoon andaliman (Sichuan peppercorns, or substitute regular Sichuan peppercorns)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon palm sugar (or light brown sugar)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (preferably lemon basil)
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• Banana leaves or parchment paper (for grilling, optional)