Lele Mandi Kecap: A Flavorful Catfish Dish
Ingredients
- 4 pieces fried catfish (lele)
- 3 blocks of tofu, cut into small cubes
- 5 shallots, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 5 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 7 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit), sliced
- A small amount of onion, thinly sliced
- A splash of water
- Optional: seasoning to taste
Instructions
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Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and chilies, cooking them until they are crispy and fragrant. This will create a rich base for the dish.
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Add the Tofu: Once the shallots and chilies are ready, introduce the small cubes of tofu into the pan. Sauté them gently to allow them to absorb the flavors.
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Incorporate the Sweet Soy Sauce: Pour in the sweet soy sauce, stirring well to ensure that the tofu is evenly coated. If desired, add a pinch of seasoning to enhance the flavor.
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Add Water and Catfish: Next, add a splash of water to the mixture. Gently place the fried catfish into the pan, allowing the fish to soak up the sauce. The water will help soften the fish and create a delightful sauce.
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Simmer for Flavor: Let the dish simmer, allowing the catfish to become tender as it absorbs the flavors from the sweet soy sauce. Aim for a slightly saucy consistency, reminiscent of a rich stew.
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Serve: Once the catfish is cooked to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the Lele Mandi Kecap warm, and enjoy it with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy the Comfort of Home Cooking
This Lele Mandi Kecap recipe brings together the comforting flavors of fried catfish, tender tofu, and aromatic seasonings, making it a perfect addition to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress with its rich taste and satisfying textures. Enjoy your culinary journey!