Ikan Cucut with Spicy Sambal and Pete
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Ikan Cucut Sambal Pedas Pake Pete, a delightful dish that showcases tender fish complemented by a spicy sambal enriched with aromatic ingredients. Perfect for those who appreciate the harmony of spicy and savory, this recipe brings a unique twist to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized Ikan Cucut (Cucut fish)
- 5 pieces of Pete (stink bean)
- 2 shallots
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 ripe tomato
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 curly red chilies
- 3 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- Salt, seasoning, and sugar to taste
- Water, as needed
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish: Begin by soaking the Ikan Cucut in water for about 15 minutes. This step helps reduce the fish’s saltiness, ensuring a balanced flavor when cooked.
-
Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until they are half-cooked. This initial frying will give the fish a crispy texture.
-
Make the Sambal: In a mortar and pestle, combine the curly red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic, and tomato. Grind these ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste.
-
Sauté the Mixture: In the same pan, add the ground sambal and sauté until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
Combine the Ingredients: Add salt, seasoning, sugar, the bay leaf, and Pete to the sambal. If needed, add a bit of water to create a sauce-like consistency.
-
Add the Fish: Gently incorporate the fried Ikan Cucut into the sambal mixture. Allow the fish to cook until the sambal fully absorbs into the fish, enriching it with flavor.
-
Serve: Once the fish is cooked through and infused with the sambal, remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy this dish with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes for a truly satisfying meal.
Enjoy Your Culinary Journey
This Ikan Cucut Sambal Pedas Pake Pete is not just a dish; it’s an experience that invites you to savor each bite. The combination of spicy sambal and the unique texture of Pete creates a delightful balance, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Dive into this recipe and elevate your culinary repertoire with this Indonesian-inspired favorite!