Lele Brekecek: A Flavorful Indonesian Catfish Delight
Discover the delightful flavors of Indonesia with Lele Brekecek, a traditional dish featuring fresh catfish simmered in aromatic spices. This recipe combines a medley of herbs and spices to create a tantalizing meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for those who appreciate the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh catfish (lele) | 500 grams (1/2 kg) |
| Kemangi (Thai basil) | To taste |
| Spice Paste: | |
| Red onions | To taste |
| Garlic | To taste |
| Turmeric | To taste |
| Ginger | To taste |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | To taste |
| Additional Ingredients: | |
| Galangal | To taste |
| Bay leaves | 2-3 leaves |
| Royco seasoning | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | Approximately 400 ml |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by preparing the spice paste. Blend or grind the red onions, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and candlenuts together until smooth. This aromatic paste will be the foundation of your dish. |
| 2 | In a large frying pan or wok, heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes. |
| 3 | Gently add the cleaned catfish to the pan. Stir occasionally, cooking until the fish begins to wilt slightly. This should take around 5 minutes. |
| 4 | Pour in about 400 ml of clean water, ensuring that the fish is submerged. Add the Royco seasoning, sugar, and salt to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. |
| 5 | Toss in the galangal and bay leaves, which will add depth and aroma to the dish. Cover the frying pan and let the fish simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and the water has reduced. |
| 6 | Once cooked, turn off the heat. Serve the Lele Brekecek warm, garnished with fresh kemangi leaves. Remember to pray before enjoying your meal, embracing the flavors of Indonesia. |
Nutritional Information:
While specific nutritional information can vary based on the exact ingredients used, this dish is generally rich in protein from the catfish and packed with vitamins and minerals from the various spices and herbs. Each serving offers a balance of flavors while being a low-calorie option when enjoyed in moderation.
Enjoy the experience of cooking Lele Brekecek, where each step is an invitation to explore the vibrant culinary traditions of Indonesia. This dish is perfect for any gathering, bringing a taste of home and heart to your dining table.
