Grilled Mackerel Delight (Ikan Kembung Bakar)
Ingredients
- 5 mackerel fish (ikan kembung)
- 7 red curly chilies (cabe kriting merah)
- 5 shallots (bawang merah)
- 3 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
- 1 stalk of lemongrass (sereh)
- 1 finger-length turmeric (kunyit)
- A pinch of ginger and galangal (jahe & lengkuas)
- Salt, sugar, and seasoning to taste
- 3 tablespoons of instant coconut milk (santan instan)
Preparation Steps
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Clean the Fish: Start by thoroughly cleaning the mackerel fish. Rinse under cold water and then rub with lime juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then rinse again and sprinkle with salt. This helps in reducing the fishy smell and adding a hint of flavor.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar and pestle, grind the red curly chilies, shallots, garlic, lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, and galangal until you achieve a smooth paste. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and aromatic spice blend that is essential for this dish.
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Combine with Coconut Milk: Transfer the spice paste to a bowl and mix in the instant coconut milk. This will create a thick, flavorful marinade.
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Marinate the Fish: Rub the marinade generously over the mackerel fish, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the fish, making it incredibly tasty.
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Grill the Fish: Preheat a non-stick grill pan over medium heat. Place the marinated fish on the pan and grill until cooked through, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The fish should be nicely charred on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the fish is perfectly grilled, transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for an added burst of flavor. Serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the number of chilies according to your preferred spice level. For a milder version, reduce the chilies, or remove the seeds to lessen the heat.
- Marinating Time: If possible, marinate the fish longer than an hour, up to overnight, for an even more intense flavor.
- Grill Alternatives: If you don’t have a non-stick grill pan, you can use a regular grill or even bake the fish in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until done.
This Grilled Mackerel Delight, or Ikan Kembung Bakar, is a deliciously simple recipe that brings out the best in mackerel fish. The aromatic blend of spices and the rich coconut milk create a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a delightful dinner option, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade grilled fish dish!
