Zesty Ikan Jangki with Fresh Sambal Matah
Ikan Jangki Sambal Matah: A Flavorful Delight
Discover the vibrant flavors of Ikan Jangki Sambal Matah, a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the freshness of fish paired with a zesty sambal. This delightful recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursts with the richness of local ingredients, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- Ikan Jangki (cleaned fish)
- Cooking Oil (for frying)
- Lime Juice (to taste)
- Shallots (to taste)
- Bird’s Eye Chili (red and green, to taste)
- Lemongrass (to taste)
- Shrimp Paste (terasi)
- Salt (to taste)
- Lime Leaves or Lime (for garnish)
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Fish: Start by cleaning the Ikan Jangki thoroughly, then marinate it with freshly squeezed lime juice. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the fish.
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Fry the Fish: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated fish and fry until it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish.
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Chop the Aromatics: While the fish is frying, finely chop the shallots, Bird’s Eye Chili (both red and green), and lemongrass. The combination of these ingredients will bring a fresh, vibrant taste to your sambal.
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Prepare the Sambal: In a small pan, lightly toast the shrimp paste until fragrant. Then, add the chopped aromatics along with a splash of cooking oil and a pinch of salt. Squeeze in some lime juice for an extra burst of flavor, or add sliced lime leaves for an aromatic touch.
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Serve: Once the fish is perfectly fried, place it on a serving plate and generously spoon the freshly made sambal on top. The combination of the crispy fish with the vibrant sambal is sure to impress your guests.
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Enjoy: Serve your Ikan Jangki Sambal Matah with steamed rice for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors and textures!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the level of spiciness in your sambal by varying the amount of Bird’s Eye Chili used.
- For added depth, consider experimenting with additional herbs such as coriander or mint.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared in advance; simply keep the sambal separate until ready to serve.
Conclusion
With its bright flavors and simple preparation, Ikan Jangki Sambal Matah is a celebration of Indonesian culinary traditions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a meal at home, this dish is sure to elevate your dining experience. Happy cooking!



