Grilled Milkfish with Simple Spice Blend (Bandeng Bakar Bumbu Simpel)
Delight in the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this recipe for Grilled Milkfish, or Bandeng Bakar Bumbu Simpel. This dish showcases the delicate texture of fresh milkfish, perfectly complemented by a vibrant, spicy marinade that elevates its natural taste. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Gather your ingredients, and let’s create a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Indonesia!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh medium-sized milkfish (bandeng) | 2 fish |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 60 pieces (reduce for less heat) |
| Curly red chilies (cabe keriting) | 3 pieces |
| Shallots (Bawang merah) | 5 cloves |
| Garlic (Bawang putih) | 2 cloves |
| Coconut oil (minyak kampung) | 4 tablespoons (optional) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lime | 2 pieces |
Preparation Steps
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Clean the Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the milkfish. Remove the scales and innards, ensuring it is clean. Make shallow cuts along the back of the fish to open it up slightly, allowing the flavors to penetrate during cooking. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the fish, followed by a sprinkle of salt. Set the fish aside to marinate while you prepare the spice blend.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine the bird’s eye chilies, curly red chilies, shallots, garlic, salt, and sugar. Grind or blend until you achieve a smooth paste, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Heat the Oil: In a small pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully pour the spice paste into the pan. Stir and cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
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Grill the Fish: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the milkfish on the grill and cook until it is about halfway done, approximately 5-7 minutes depending on the thickness of the fish.
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Add the Marinade: Generously brush the prepared spice mixture onto the fish, ensuring it is well coated. Continue grilling for another 5-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
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Serve: Once the fish is perfectly grilled, remove it from the heat. Transfer it to a serving platter, garnish with lime wedges, and enjoy this delightful dish with steamed rice and your choice of side dishes.
Note
Coconut oil, referred to as minyak kampung, is homemade coconut oil that adds a unique flavor to the dish. However, if it is unavailable, you can substitute it with any neutral cooking oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Milkfish with Simple Spice Blend is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome dish brimming with flavor, making it an excellent addition to any gathering. Serve it with a fresh salad or a side of grilled vegetables to create a complete meal that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor every bite of this delectable dish!
