Bali Ikan Bandeng Recipe
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Bali with this delectable Ikan Bandeng dish, a celebration of fresh fish infused with aromatic spices and herbs. Perfect for those looking to experience authentic Indonesian cuisine, this recipe combines simplicity with rich taste, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1/4 Ikan Bandeng (Milkfish)
- 5 Large Red Chilies (Cabai Merah Besar)
- 10 Bird’s Eye Chilies (Cabai Rawit)
- 3 Cloves of Garlic (Bawang Putih)
- 2 Shallots (Bawang Merah)
- 2 cm Galangal (Lengkuas)
- 2 cm Turmeric (Kunyit)
- 1 cm Ginger (Jahe)
- 2 Kaffir Lime Leaves (Daun Jeruk)
- 2 Bay Leaves (Daun Salam)
- 1 Lemongrass Stalk (Serai)
- 3 Candlenuts (Kemiri)
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 2 tablespoons Lime (optional, for marinating)
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the ikan bandeng thoroughly and then cut it into two pieces. If you prefer, you can keep the fish whole; this choice is entirely up to your personal preference.
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Marinate the Fish: Sprinkle the fish with salt and then rub it with lime juice. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
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Make the Spice Paste: In the meantime, prepare your spice paste. Combine the large red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, garlic, shallots, turmeric, galangal, ginger, and candlenuts in a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
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Cook the Fish: After marinating, heat oil in a frying pan and fry the fish until it is golden and cooked through. Set the fish aside once done.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In the same pan, use the oil left from frying the fish to sauté the spice paste. Add in the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and lemongrass, stirring until the aroma is fragrant and the mixture is cooked through.
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Combine and Simmer: Gently place the fried fish back into the pan with the sautéed spices. Allow the fish to simmer with the spices for about 10 minutes, adding a little water as needed to keep the dish moist. This step is crucial for letting the flavors meld and the fish absorb the delightful essence of the spices.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well combined and aromatic, your Bali Ikan Bandeng is ready to be served. Enjoy this dish with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a complete meal that transports you straight to the heart of Bali.
Indulge in the unique blend of flavors that this Bali Ikan Bandeng recipe offers, bringing a taste of Indonesian tradition right to your table. With its fragrant spices and tender fish, it’s sure to become a cherished dish in your home cooking repertoire. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!