Nila Bakar: Grilled Nile Fish with Rich Spices
Nila Bakar, or Grilled Nile Fish, is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of the fish with a robust blend of spices, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering. This recipe balances the savory and sweet elements, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. Let’s explore how to create this flavorful dish step by step.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nile fish (Ikan Nila) | 6 whole fish |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Salt (garam) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cooking oil (minyak goreng) | As needed |
| Grilling Spice Mix | |
| Coriander (tumbar) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curly red chilies (cabai merah keriting) | 9 chilies |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Red onions (bawang merah) | 3 onions |
| Salt (garam) | 1 teaspoon |
| Lime leaves (daun jeruk) | 3 leaves |
| Tamarind water (air asam jawa) | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar (gula merah) | 3 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce (kecap) | 3 tablespoons |
| Water | 1 cup |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the Nile fish thoroughly, removing scales and internal organs. Make shallow cuts on the outer surface of the fish to allow the spices to penetrate better.
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Seasoning: In a bowl, mix the minced garlic and salt, then rub this mixture generously over the fish, ensuring every crevice is well coated. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15-30 minutes.
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Frying: Heat a sufficient amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, briefly fry the fish until they are just golden on the outside. This step helps to seal in the moisture and flavor. Remove and set aside.
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Making the Grilling Spice Mix: In a blender, combine coriander, curly red chilies, garlic, red onions, and salt. Blend until smooth. In a pot, add this spice mixture along with lime leaves, tamarind water, brown sugar, soy sauce, and water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Basting and Grilling: Dip the fried fish into the thickened spice mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Preheat your grill and place the fish on it. Grill the fish for about 5-7 minutes on each side, basting with additional spice mixture for added flavor.
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Serving: Once cooked through and beautifully charred, remove the fish from the grill. Serve hot with steamed rice and your choice of side dishes.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Nila Bakar is a fantastic dish to enjoy at gatherings or family meals, bursting with flavors that are sure to impress your guests. The combination of spices and the grilling process enhances the fish’s natural flavors, making it a true culinary delight. Enjoy this dish with loved ones and create lasting memories around the table!
