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–+ servings

Achiote Butterflied Snapper

Unfolded like a tropical fan, this snapper cooks in a flash: the buttery achiote marinade melts into the skin, leaving smoky-citrus aromas and a sunset-orange crust.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 290kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 lb whole red snapper butterflied/spatchcocked; sub: whole tilapia, sea bream, or two thick fillets
  • 3 tbsp softened butter or ghee sub: avocado oil + 1/2 tsp xanthan gum for cling
  • 1 tbsp achiote (annatto) paste sub: 2 tsp sweet paprika + 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 2 cloves garlic minced; sub: 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp orange zest sub: lime zest for tighter carbs
  • 1 tbsp lime juice sub: lemon juice or 2 tsp vinegar
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin sub: ground coriander
  • 1/4 tsp chipotle powder optional heat; sub: smoked paprika
  • Garnish: lime wedges chopped cilantro

Instructions

  • Make the achiote butter: Mash butter, achiote paste, garlic, orange zest, lime juice, salt, cumin, and chipotle into a smooth, brick-red spread.
  • Prep the snapper: Pat fish very dry, especially in the slits. Rub half the achiote butter over skin and cavity; reserve the rest for basting.
  • Preheat & oil grates: Grill high direct heat, ≈500°F.
  • Grill & baste: Lay snapper skin-side down, press flat with a spatula 30 sec. Grill 5–6 min until skin chars and releases. Flip carefully; baste flesh with remaining butter. Cook 5–6 min more, lid closed, until thickest part hits 135°F.
  • Rest & serve: Transfer to platter, spoon buttery juices over, and hit with fresh lime. Carve along backbone into big flaky slabs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 290kcal | Protein: 28g | Fat: 19g
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