Caribbean Steamed Snapper with Callaloo and Spiced Coconut Rice
This vibrant Caribbean dish features fresh snapper steamed with traditional island herbs and spices, served alongside lightly sautéed callaloo greens and fragrant spiced coconut rice. The steaming method preserves the delicate flavors of the fish while the accompaniments showcase seasonal produce and authentic Caribbean tastes perfectly suited for a nutritious weeknight meal.
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Overview
This Caribbean Steamed Snapper recipe highlights tender fish infused with island spices and herbs, steamed to perfection to maintain moisture and flavor. Served with sautéed callaloo—a green leafy vegetable popular in the Caribbean—and spiced coconut rice, this meal balances freshness and aroma for a wholesome dining experience.
Why you’ll love it
- Healthy steaming method preserves nutrients and flavor.
- Authentic Caribbean ingredients offer rich and vibrant tastes.
- Quick and approachable for weeknight cooking.
- Balanced dish with protein, greens, and fragrant rice.
Ingredient notes
- Snapper: Use fresh whole snapper or fillets, about 400–500 g (14–18 oz) for two servings.
- Callaloo: Substitute with spinach or amaranth if unavailable.
- Coconut milk: Use unsweetened canned coconut milk for creamy, natural flavor.
- Spices: Typical Caribbean spices such as allspice berries add warmth and depth.
Serving & storage
Serve hot immediately after steaming to enjoy the fresh flavors and delicate texture of the fish. Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish. The spiced coconut rice and callaloo reheat well separately.
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Chef tips
- If fresh callaloo is not available, substitute with spinach or Swiss chard for similar texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet chili to control the spiciness; remove seeds to reduce heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish for food safety.
- Letting the rice rest after cooking improves texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Ingredients
- 1 whole snapper, cleaned and scaled (about 500 g / 1 lb 2 oz)snapper
- 2 clovesgarlic, minced
- 1 tbspfresh thyme leaves
- 1 smallscotch bonnet chili, sliced (optional, for heat)
- 1 tspground allspice
- 100 ml (3.4 fl oz)lime juice
- 2 tbspolive oil
- 200 g (7 oz)callaloo leaves, washed and roughly chopped
- 2 tbspvegetable oil
- 1 smallonion, finely sliced
- 1 cup (200 g)long-grain white rice
- 400 ml (13.5 fl oz)unsweetened coconut milk
- 1/2 tspground cinnamon
- 1/4 tspground nutmeg
- 2 cups (480 ml)water
- saltto taste
- black pepperto taste
- fresh cilantrofor garnish
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Equipment
- steamer or large pot with steaming rack
- medium saucepan
- large skillet or frying pan
- mixing bowl
- knife
- cutting board
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition per serving
- Calories520
- Protein40 g
- Carbs50 g
- Fat15 g
Step-by-step
Step 1
Rinse the snapper under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Score the skin on both sides with 2–3 diagonal cuts to help absorb flavors.Step 2
In a small mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, sliced scotch bonnet chili (if using), ground allspice, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.Step 3
Place the snapper on a large piece of aluminum foil or a heatproof plate suitable for steaming. Pour the marinade evenly over the fish, rubbing it into the scored cuts and inside the cavity if whole. Let it marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.Step 4
Meanwhile, rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.Step 5
In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.Step 6
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 18 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.Step 7
While rice cooks, bring water to a boil in your steamer setup. Place the marinated snapper in the steamer basket or plate, cover, and steam for 15 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Ensure fish reaches a safe internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).Step 8
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.Step 9
Add chopped callaloo leaves to the skillet, cook, stirring often, for 4–5 minutes until wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Step 10
Fluff the spiced coconut rice with a fork. Serve the steamed snapper garnished with fresh cilantro alongside the sautéed callaloo and coconut rice.
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