Title: Sweet and Spicy Smoked Mackerel (Cakalang Asap Pedas Manis)
When it comes to quick and satisfying meals that tantalize the taste buds, Sweet and Spicy Smoked Mackerel, or Cakalang Asap Pedas Manis, stands out as a delightful option. This dish not only highlights the rich flavors of smoked mackerel but also incorporates a blend of aromatic spices and heat from various chilies, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or a flavorful addition to your lunchbox. The recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in a matter of minutes, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the ingredients, preparation steps, and nutritional information to guide you in creating this delectable dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked mackerel (shredded) | 250 grams |
| Shallots | 12 pieces |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili (adjust to taste) | 250 grams |
| Curly red chili | 10 pieces |
| Shrimp paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Galangal (sliced) | 1 piece |
| Tamarind water | 5 tablespoons |
| Palm sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Spice Mixture: Start by finely grinding the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chili, and curly red chili in a mortar and pestle or a food processor until you achieve a smooth paste. Set aside the sliced galangal, as it will be added later.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In a pan, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground spice mixture and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Add Liquids and Seasoning: To the sautéed spices, add the tamarind water, sliced galangal, palm sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Incorporate the Smoked Mackerel: Carefully add the shredded smoked mackerel to the pan. Gently stir and toss until the fish is evenly coated with the spice mixture, ensuring that it absorbs the delicious flavors.
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Cook Through: Continue to cook the mixture for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the mackerel to warm through and the spices to penetrate the fish. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or sugar according to your preference.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pan from heat. Your Sweet and Spicy Smoked Mackerel is now ready to be served! This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed as a filling for lettuce wraps or sandwiches.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300 kcal |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 8 grams |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Final Thoughts
This Sweet and Spicy Smoked Mackerel dish is not only practical for meal prep but also versatile enough to be served on various occasions. With its robust flavor profile and ease of preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their culinary repertoire. Enjoy making this dish, and let your family and friends marvel at your cooking skills! Perfect for lunchboxes, this delightful recipe ensures you have a flavorful meal ready to go, making it an ideal choice for busy days at the office or home. Happy cooking!
