
Succulent Asian-Style Grilled Whole Trout
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat15gram
Protein40gram
Ingredients
- Whole Trout (cleaned, scaled, gutted)1 piece
- Fresh ginger (finely grated)2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (minced)3 pieces
- Green onions (sliced)3 stalks
- Soy sauce2 tbsp
- Sesame oil1 tbsp
- Lime juice2 tbsp
- Honey or brown sugar1 tbsp
- Salt1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper0.5 tsp
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnishhandful n/a
- Vegetable oil (to oil the grill)as needed n/a

This Asian-style grilled whole trout recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy fresh fish with simple, fragrant ingredients like ginger, garlic, and green onions. The fish is marinated and grilled whole to keep it moist and flavorful. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $15 / €14 / £12 / ₹1200, making it an affordable and nutritious meal option. Each serving is around 350 kcal, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, ideal for pescatarian diets. The recipe is easy to follow, with a total cooking and preparation time of about 40 minutes, perfect for everyday home cooking.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the marinade
1In a bowl, combine grated ginger, minced garlic, sliced green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well until honey dissolves. This marinade will infuse the trout with vibrant Asian flavors.
Marinate the trout
2Make 2-3 diagonal slashes on each side of the cleaned trout to help the marinade penetrate. Place the trout in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over it, rubbing inside the cavity and on the skin. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.
Preheat and oil the grill
3Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Oil the grill grates lightly with vegetable oil using a brush or a paper towel held with tongs to prevent the fish from sticking during cooking.
Grill the trout
4Place the trout on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, carefully turning once using a spatula or two forks. The fish is done when the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F); use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fish. The skin should be crispy and the flesh should flake easily with a fork.
Serve
5Transfer the trout to a serving platter. Spoon the remaining marinade over the fish as a sauce. Garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Cooking Tips
1If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the fish under a broiler or in a grill pan on the stove.
2For easier flipping, use a fish grilling basket or wrap the fish in foil, poking some holes for smoke flavor.
3Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for fish and other ingredients and wash hands thoroughly after handling raw fish.
4If you do not have a meat thermometer, check the fish is cooked by making sure the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Equipment needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Meat thermometer (recommended)
- Tongs or spatula
- Brush or paper towel for oiling grill
Shopping List
- [ ] Whole Trout, fresh, about 400-600g - approx. $10 (~€9, £8, ₹800). Choose trout with shiny, clear eyes and firm flesh.
- [ ] Fresh ginger - approx. $0.50 (~€0.45, £0.40, ₹40). Look for firm, smooth skin.
- [ ] Garlic cloves - approx. $0.30 (~€0.27, £0.24, ₹25). Choose firm bulbs with tight skin.
- [ ] Green onions - approx. $0.40 (~€0.36, £0.32, ₹35). Opt for fresh, vibrant green stalks.
- [ ] Soy sauce - approx. $2 (~€1.80, £1.60, ₹160).
- [ ] Sesame oil - approx. $3 (~€2.70, £2.40, ₹250).
- [ ] Lime (for juice) - approx. $0.50 (~€0.45, £0.40, ₹40). Choose firm and heavy for size.
- [ ] Honey or brown sugar - approx. $0.50 (~€0.45, £0.40, ₹40).
- [ ] Salt and pepper - pantry staples.
- [ ] Fresh coriander (cilantro) - approx. $0.70 (~€0.65, £0.60, ₹60).
- [ ] Vegetable oil - pantry staple.
Total approx. cost: $15 (~€14, £12, ₹1200)
FAQ
How do I know when the trout is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F). Alternatively, the fish should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork.
Can I use frozen trout?
Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and grilling for best results.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan on the stove or broil the fish in the oven with similar cooking times and temperatures.
How to prevent the fish from sticking to the grill?
Preheat the grill well and oil the grates lightly just before placing the fish on them. Also, avoid moving the fish too early while grilling.