Ikan Bawal with Padang Sauce
Embark on a culinary adventure with this vibrant and flavorful Ikan Bawal with Padang Sauce, a dish that beautifully showcases the rich and spicy essence of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion, this recipe highlights the tender fish bathed in a delightful sauce that promises to awaken your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized Bawal fish (cleaned and prepared)
- 3 red curly chilies (blended)
- 3 red bird’s eye chilies (sliced)
- 4 shallots (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (finely chopped)
- 1 medium-sized onion (sliced)
- 1 packet oyster sauce
- 4 packets extra spicy chili sauce
- 2 packets tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Water (as needed)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
- Lime juice (for marinating)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Start by thoroughly cleaning the Bawal fish, then season it generously with salt and a splash of lime juice. Allow the fish to marinate for about 10 minutes, ensuring the flavors penetrate the flesh. Next, heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until it’s golden brown and half-dried. Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, reduce the heat and add finely chopped shallots and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden, releasing their aromatic qualities. Next, add the blended red curly chilies and continue to sauté until they are cooked through, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Step 3: Combine the Sauces
Once the chilies have cooked down, incorporate the sliced onion, oyster sauce, extra spicy chili sauce, and tomato sauce into the mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and create a cohesive sauce. Add enough water to achieve your desired consistency, allowing the sauce to simmer gently.
Step 4: Add the Fish
Carefully introduce the fried Bawal fish into the sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated. Gently stir to combine, allowing the fish to soak up the rich flavors of the sauce. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding salt to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Step 5: Finish with Freshness
As a final touch, sprinkle the sliced bird’s eye chilies over the fish, giving it an extra kick. Allow everything to simmer for a few moments, ensuring the fish is heated through and fully infused with the spicy goodness of the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Once the dish is perfectly balanced and ready to go, carefully lift the fish from the pan and place it on a serving platter. This vibrant Ikan Bawal with Padang Sauce is now ready to be enjoyed, bringing a taste of Indonesia to your table. Serve hot with steamed rice for a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Enjoy!
This Ikan Bawal with Padang Sauce recipe embodies the spirit of culinary exploration, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely impress your guests. Happy cooking!
