Small Bandeng with Pickled Spices

This delightful dish, featuring small bandeng (milkfish) marinated in a fragrant pickled spice mixture, is a wonderful way to enjoy a burst of flavors. Perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying with family, this recipe combines fresh vegetables with a tantalizing spice blend to create a truly memorable meal.

Ingredients

• 500 grams small bandeng (milkfish)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 7 shallots
• 2 large red chilies, seeds removed
• 1 piece ginger (about 1 inch)
• 2 pieces turmeric (about 1 inch)
• 2 candlenuts, halved
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 piece galangal (laos)
• 1 kaffir lime leaf
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 sachet chicken bouillon (Masako)
• 2 carrots, cut into long strips
• 2 cucumbers, cut into long strips
• 1 tablespoon vinegar

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Bandeng: Start by washing the small bandeng thoroughly. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with salt, allowing it to marinate for about 2 minutes. After marinating, fry the fish until it is crispy and golden brown. Set aside.

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2. Cut the Vegetables: Slice the carrots and cucumbers into long strips and rinse them well. Set aside for later use.

3. Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, candlenuts, ginger, turmeric, red chilies, salt, and sugar. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

4. Sauté the Spice Mixture: In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the spice paste until fragrant. Add the galangal, kaffir lime leaf, and bay leaves, stirring until well combined.

5. Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced cucumbers and carrots to the pan, along with a splash of water. Allow the mixture to come to a boil.

6. Combine with Bandeng: Once boiling, gently add the crispy bandeng to the pan. Season with the chicken bouillon and vinegar, stirring everything together until well coated.

7. Simmer: Let the dish simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

8. Serve: Transfer the small bandeng with pickled spices to a serving dish and enjoy with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.

This Small Bandeng with Pickled Spices is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a delicious punch of flavor that your family and friends will love. Enjoy this unique culinary creation that showcases the wonderful tastes of traditional Indonesian cuisine!