Gurame Bakar: Grilled Gurame Fish

Gurame Bakar, or grilled gurame fish, is a delightful dish that embodies the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine. This recipe guides you through creating a succulent, spice-infused grilled fish that’s perfect for any gathering. With its aromatic spices and savory glaze, this dish will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 1 whole gurame fish (approximately 700 grams)

Spice Paste:

• 4 red curly chilies (cayenne pepper)
• 4 shallots
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 2 candlenuts
• 2 cm turmeric
• 2 cm galangal
• 2 cm ginger
• 2 stalks lemongrass (use only the white part, sliced thin for easier blending)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon goat seasoning (optional, traditional Minang spice)

Basting Sauce:

• 2 shallots (finely ground)
• ½ teaspoon soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Preparation Steps

1. Clean the Fish:
   Start by thoroughly washing the gurame fish. Make a deep cut along its back and score the sides to help the spices penetrate.

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2. Marinate the Fish:
   Rub the spice paste generously all over the fish, ensuring it gets into the cuts and crevices. For the best flavor, allow the fish to marinate for at least one hour (or overnight for enhanced taste).

3. Prepare the Charcoal:
   Fire up your charcoal grill and allow the coals to burn until they are slightly dried or half-cooked, providing a steady and even heat for grilling.

4. Prepare the Basting Sauce:
   In a bowl, combine the finely ground shallots with soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, and vegetable oil. Mix well to create a smooth basting sauce.

5. Grill the Fish:
   Place the marinated fish on the grill. Begin basting with the prepared sauce while grilling. Flip the fish occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from burning. Continue grilling until the fish is cooked through and has a lovely charred exterior.

6. Serve:
   Once the fish is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill. Your Gurame Bakar is now ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful dish with steamed rice and your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfection:

• For an even more flavorful experience, you can add additional spices to the marinade based on your preference.
• Always ensure that your grill is well-oiled to prevent the fish from sticking.

This Gurame Bakar recipe not only highlights the traditional flavors of Indonesia but also brings a sense of warmth and hospitality to your dining table. Enjoy the process of preparing this dish as much as you will enjoy savoring it with friends and family!