Balado Nila Fish and Tofu
This delightful dish, known as Balado Nila, combines the savory flavors of tilapia fish (ikan nila) and tofu, all wrapped up in a vibrant and spicy sauce made from red chilies and aromatic vegetables. It’s a perfect representation of Indonesian cuisine, showcasing a harmony of flavors that dance on your palate. Serve this dish warm alongside steamed rice for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tilapia fish (ikan nila) | 2 whole |
| Tofu (cut into cubes) | 1 block |
| Red chilies | 10 pieces |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 4 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 1 clove |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Lime juice (jeruk nipis) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Seasoning (penyedap rasa) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300-400 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start by cleaning the tilapia fish thoroughly, ensuring all scales and innards are removed. After cleaning, rub the fish with lime juice and a generous amount of salt, allowing it to marinate for a few minutes to enhance the flavors. |
| 2 | While the fish is marinating, prepare the tofu. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the tofu pieces until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the pan and set aside. |
| 3 | In a blender or food processor, combine the red chilies, shallots, garlic, and tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste, ensuring that all ingredients are finely ground. |
| 4 | In the same pan used for frying tofu, add the blended spice mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the spices are fragrant and cooked through. Season with salt and any additional seasoning to your preference. |
| 5 | Once the spice mixture is ready, add the marinated tilapia fish into the pan, allowing it to cook in the spices for about 10-15 minutes. Ensure the fish is cooked through and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. |
| 6 | Gently fold in the crispy tofu into the pan, mixing everything together until well combined. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. |
| 7 | Remove from heat and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making for a complete meal that is both nourishing and delicious. Enjoy your Balado Nila with friends and family! |
Tips for Serving
- Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh lime wedges or sliced cucumbers for a refreshing contrast to the spiciness.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of red chilies or remove the seeds before blending.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish can also be complemented with a side of stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and color.
Balado Nila is a true celebration of flavors, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the vibrant and aromatic experience that this dish brings to your dining table!
