Crispy Ikan Jangki with Zesty Sambal Matah
Ikan Jangki Sambal Matah
Introduction
Ikan Jangki Sambal Matah is a vibrant dish hailing from Indonesia, known for its fresh flavors and aromatic sambal that perfectly complements the crispy fish. The combination of fresh herbs, spicy chilies, and tangy lime creates a dish that is not only a feast for the senses but also a delightful representation of Indonesian culinary traditions. Perfect for those who appreciate a balance of heat and freshness, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan Jangki (cleaned) | As needed |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Lime juice (from jeruk nipis) | To taste |
| Red shallots | To taste |
| Bird’s eye chili (cabe rawit merah) | To taste |
| Green chili (cabe rawit ijo) | To taste |
| Lemongrass (sereh) | To taste |
| Shrimp paste (terasi) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | Optional |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fats | 12 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the Ikan Jangki thoroughly. Once cleaned, rub the fish with fresh lime juice (jeruk nipis) to eliminate any fishy odor and to add a zesty flavor. Allow the fish to marinate for about 10 minutes.
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Fry the Fish: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated fish. Fry until the fish is golden brown and crispy on both sides, typically about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Prepare the Sambal: While the fish is frying, finely chop the red shallots, red bird’s eye chili, and green bird’s eye chili. Use a mortar and pestle for a traditional approach, or chop them finely with a knife.
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Roast the Shrimp Paste: In a small pan, gently roast the shrimp paste (terasi) over low heat until fragrant. This step enhances its flavor. Once roasted, add the chopped ingredients along with a splash of cooking oil and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
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Add Lime and Herbs: Squeeze in some lime juice or, if desired, add thinly sliced kaffir lime leaves for an extra aromatic touch. Stir everything together until well combined.
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Serve: Arrange the fried Ikan Jangki on a serving platter. Spoon the sambal matah generously over the fish, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Enjoy: Serve the dish immediately, and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy fish and zesty sambal. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
This Ikan Jangki Sambal Matah recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. With its crispy fish and vibrant sambal, it embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together family and friends around the dining table. Enjoy this culinary journey and happy cooking!
