Crispy Lele with Fragrant Kemangi Sambal: A Taste of Indonesia
Lele Sambal Kemangi: A Delicious Indonesian Delight
This Lele Sambal Kemangi recipe celebrates the vibrant flavors of Indonesia, combining crispy fried catfish (lele) with a fragrant sambal made from fresh herbs and spices. It’s an ideal dish for anyone looking to explore the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lele (catfish) | 5 pieces |
| Daun kemangi | 1 bunch |
| Bawang merah (red onion) | 3-4 cloves |
| Bawang putih (garlic) | 2-3 cloves |
| Cabe besar (large chili) | 1-2 pieces |
| Cabe kecil (small chili) | 3-4 pieces |
| Tomat (tomato) | 1 medium |
| Terasi (shrimp paste) | 1 teaspoon |
| Royco (seasoning) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam (salt) | To taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the catfish thoroughly, ensuring it’s free of any impurities. Once cleaned, heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the fish until they are golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Make the Sambal: In a mortar and pestle (ulekan), combine the red onion, garlic, large chili, small chili, and tomato. Grind them together until you achieve a smooth paste. For a more traditional flavor, using a mortar and pestle is preferable to a blender, as it helps release the essential oils from the ingredients.
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Incorporate the Shrimp Paste: Add the terasi to the sambal mixture and continue to grind until well blended. Season with Royco and salt, adjusting to taste.
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Prepare the Kemangi: Rinse the daun kemangi under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. This herb adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the dish.
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Assemble the Dish: On a serving plate, arrange the fried lele and spoon the sambal generously over the fish. Place the fresh daun kemangi on the side, allowing diners to enjoy the herb as a complement to the spicy sambal.
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Serve: Your Lele Sambal Kemangi is now ready to be served! Enjoy this dish with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300-350 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
This Lele Sambal Kemangi recipe embodies the heart of Indonesian cooking—simple ingredients transformed into a flavorful feast that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful recipe.
