Crispy Balado Mackerel with Spicy Chili Sauce

Balado Ikan Kembung: Spicy Mackerel Delight

Ingredients:

• 600 grams mackerel fish (ikan kembung), cleaned and patted dry
• Cooking oil
• 5 stalks scallions, sliced into thin strips
• 1 tomato, sliced
• Salt and sugar to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• For the spice paste:
  • 10 red curly chilies (cabe merah keriting)
  • 4 shallots
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Season the cleaned mackerel with salt and lime juice. Allow the fish to marinate for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Fry the Fish:

   • Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan. Fry the marinated mackerel until it is crispy and fully cooked on both sides. Once done, remove the fish from the pan and drain on paper towels.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the sliced scallions and tomato until they become soft and translucent.
   • Add the spice paste ingredients: red curly chilies, shallots, and garlic, which have been blended or ground into a smooth paste. Cook until the paste becomes aromatic and starts to separate from the oil.
   • Season with a pinch of sugar and salt to taste, adjusting the sweetness and saltiness to your preference.

4. Combine and Serve:

   • Pour the spicy paste over the fried mackerel arranged on a serving plate, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.
   • Serve the Balado Ikan Kembung hot, and enjoy the vibrant, spicy flavors of this traditional Indonesian dish.

This dish is a delightful combination of crispy fish and a richly flavored chili paste, perfect for adding a touch of spice to your meal.