Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Finely dice the onion.
Mince the garlic cloves.
Grate the fresh ginger.
Thinly slice the red chili.
Set all ingredients aside for easy cooking.
Step 2: Make the Coconut Sauce
Heat the vegetable or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.
Stir in the garlic, ginger, and sliced chili.
Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and brown sugar.
Stir until well combined.
Season with salt, black pepper, and fish sauce if using.
Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to simmer gently.
Step 3: Cook the Grouper
Pat the grouper fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
Heat a little oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
The fish is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Transfer the cooked grouper into the skillet with the coconut sauce.
Let the fish warm in the sauce for 1–2 minutes.
Spoon the sauce generously over each fillet.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately with steamed rice, coconut rice, or roasted vegetables.