Ikan Selar Balado Kering: A Delightful Indonesian Spicy Fish Dish
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Indonesia with Ikan Selar Balado Kering, a dish that beautifully marries crispy fish with a rich and spicy sambal. This recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward, perfect for any home cook looking to explore Indonesian cuisine. With a blend of fresh ingredients and spices, Ikan Selar Balado Kering promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan selar (cleaned and with lime juice) | 1/2 kg |
| Red chilies | 15 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 5 pieces |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Small tomato | 1 piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Seasoning (e.g., Sasa) | To taste |
| Water | 1/2 small glass |
| Oil (for frying and sautéing) | As needed |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the ikan selar and marinating it with lime juice for a refreshing flavor. This step not only enhances the taste but also helps eliminate any fishy odor.
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Fry the Fish: In a pan, heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the marinated fish in the oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, ensuring the fish is cooked through. Once done, remove the fish from the pan and drain excess oil on paper towels.
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Make the Sambal: In a blender or mortar and pestle, combine the red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic, and the small tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. If you prefer a chunkier sambal, pulse it a few times instead.
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Sauté the Sambal: In the same pan used for frying the fish, add a little oil if necessary and heat it over medium. Add the blended sambal and sauté until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the ½ small glass of water, and season with salt, sugar, and seasoning to taste. Stir well and let the mixture simmer until it begins to boil and reduce slightly.
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Mix with Fish: Carefully add the fried ikan selar into the sambal mixture. Gently toss to coat the fish evenly with the spicy sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavors for a few minutes.
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Serve: Once well combined, remove the pan from heat. Transfer the ikan selar balado kering to a serving plate, and enjoy your delicious dish hot with steamed rice or as a side to your favorite Indonesian meal.
Tips for the Perfect Ikan Selar Balado Kering
- Choosing the Fish: Opt for fresh ikan selar for the best flavor. If unavailable, mackerel can be a great substitute.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red and bird’s eye chilies according to your preferred spice level.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, sliced cucumbers, and a side of fresh sambal.
Conclusion
Ikan Selar Balado Kering is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the essence of Indonesian cooking. With its crispy fish and spicy sambal, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking, and enjoy this delightful culinary adventure!
