Grilled Mackerel with Sweet Soy Glaze
Ingredients:
- 4 mackerel fish (ikan kembung puring)
- Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), to taste
- For the Spice Paste:
- 10 shallots
- 7 cloves garlic
- 2 candlenuts (kemiri)
- 2 segments turmeric (kunyit)
- 1 segment ginger (jahe)
- Red chilies, to taste
- 1 tsp coriander seeds (optional)
- Sugar, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by cleaning the mackerel thoroughly. Make several shallow cuts on each side of the fish to allow the flavors to penetrate better. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the fish to remove any fishy odor and to add a touch of tanginess. Set aside to marinate. -
Make the Spice Paste:
In a blender or food processor, combine shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, ginger, and red chilies. Blend into a smooth paste. Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the spice paste until it becomes fragrant and the raw aroma disappears. Add sugar and salt to taste. Continue cooking until the paste is well-cooked and aromatic. Remove from heat. -
Marinate the Fish:
Coat the prepared fish thoroughly with the spice paste. Ensure that the paste gets into the cuts you made earlier. Let the fish marinate for a few hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to meld. -
Grill the Fish:
Heat a grill pan over medium heat and add a small amount of butter to prevent sticking. Place the marinated fish on the pan. Cook for a few minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and develops a nice char. Brush the fish with sweet soy sauce during grilling, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and caramelization of the sauce. Continue basting and turning until the fish is nicely glazed and cooked to your preference. -
Serve:
Serve the grilled mackerel with additional sweet soy sauce and sambal kecap (a spicy soy sauce condiment) on the side. Enjoy the dish with steamed rice or your favorite accompaniments.
This recipe captures the essence of traditional Indonesian grilled mackerel, offering a delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that make each bite a memorable experience.
