Gurame Sambel Ulek: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Gurame Sambel Ulek is a beloved Indonesian dish that showcases the unique flavors of the region, bringing together the tender, fried Gurame fish with a spicy, aromatic sambel that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the rich and vibrant cuisine of Indonesia, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Let’s explore the ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gurame fish | 2 whole fish |
| For the Sambel Ulek | |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Tomato | 1 medium |
| Petis (fermented shrimp paste) | 1 tablespoon |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Gurame Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the Gurame fish under cold running water. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season with a pinch of salt if desired. Heat enough oil in a frying pan over medium heat, and fry the fish until golden brown and crispy on both sides. This should take about 5–7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish. Once cooked, remove the fish from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
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Make the Sambel Ulek: While the fish is frying, prepare the sambel. In a mortar and pestle (or food processor), combine the garlic, shallots, and tomato. Grind or blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Cook the Sambel: In the same frying pan, discard excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon for sautéing. Add the blended sambel mixture to the pan and sauté over medium heat for about 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
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Incorporate Petis: Stir in the petis (fermented shrimp paste) into the sautéed sambel, allowing it to combine well with the other ingredients. If you’re using a flavor enhancer, add it at this point to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
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Combine Fish and Sambel: Gently place the fried Gurame fish into the pan with the sambel, spooning the mixture over the fish to coat it evenly. Allow it to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sambel and adjust seasoning if necessary, ensuring it has the right balance of flavors.
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Serve: Carefully transfer the Gurame Sambel Ulek to a serving platter. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and fresh vegetables, allowing the sambel’s spiciness to shine.
Enjoy Your Culinary Journey
Gurame Sambel Ulek is not just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies the heart of Indonesian cuisine. The combination of the crispy fish and the rich, spicy sambel creates a harmonious dish that will leave everyone craving more. Dive into this flavorful adventure and bring a taste of Indonesia to your table!
