Bawal Goreng Sambal Matah: A Flavorful Indonesian Delicacy
Introduction
Bawal Goreng Sambal Matah is a delightful dish that combines the crispy texture of fried fish with the vibrant and spicy flavors of sambal matah, a traditional Indonesian raw sambal. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a beautiful presentation for the eyes, making it perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal. The crispy fish, marinated with aromatic spices, paired with the fresh, zesty sambal, offers a balance of taste that is simply irresistible. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure to prepare this delightful dish that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Below are the ingredients you will need to create this exquisite dish. Each component plays a vital role in building the flavor profile, ensuring that every bite is full of taste and authenticity.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fish (Bawal Putih) | 2 whole fish |
| Fish Marinade | |
| – Turmeric | 1 stalk |
| – Garlic | 2 cloves |
| – Salt | To taste |
| – Lime | 1 piece |
| – Flavoring (optional) | To taste |
| Sambal Matah | |
| – Tomato | 1 piece, diced small |
| – Curly Chili | 2 pieces, thinly sliced |
| – Bird’s Eye Chili | 5 pieces, thinly sliced |
| – Shallots | 4 pieces, thinly sliced |
| – Lime | 1 piece |
| – Cooking Oil | 4 tablespoons |
| – Fish Broth (optional) | As needed |
| – Lemongrass | 1 stalk, thinly sliced |
| – Salt | To taste |
| – Flavoring (optional) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
While the nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods, a serving of Bawal Goreng Sambal Matah typically contains the following approximate values:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 25-30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10-15 g |
| Fat | 20-25 g |
| Fiber | 2-3 g |
| Sodium | 500-700 mg |
Instructions
Creating Bawal Goreng Sambal Matah is a straightforward process that involves marinating the fish, preparing the sambal, and frying the fish to crispy perfection. Follow these steps for a delightful culinary experience:
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Prepare the Marinade: Start by finely grinding the turmeric and garlic together to create a fragrant paste. In a mixing bowl, combine this paste with salt, lime juice, and any additional flavorings you prefer. Ensure the mixture is well-blended to allow the spices to infuse thoroughly.
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Marinate the Fish: Rub the marinade all over the cleaned fish, making sure to coat both the inside and outside evenly. Allow the fish to marinate for at least 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld and penetrate the fish.
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Prepare the Sambal Matah: While the fish is marinating, prepare the sambal. In a separate bowl, mix the diced tomato, sliced shallots, curly chili, and bird’s eye chili. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and drizzle the mixture with cooking oil. For an extra flavor boost, add fish broth if available. Toss everything together gently to combine and let it sit to allow the flavors to develop.
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Fry the Fish: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated fish in the pan. Fry the fish until it is golden brown and crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the size of the fish. Keep an eye on the fish to avoid overcooking, ensuring it remains moist inside while achieving a crispy exterior.
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Draining: Once the fish is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
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Serve: To serve, generously drizzle the prepared sambal matah over the crispy fried fish. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the fish is still warm, alongside a steaming bowl of white rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Bawal Goreng Sambal Matah is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that encapsulates the essence of Indonesian cuisine. The crispy, golden fish paired with the fresh and spicy sambal is sure to impress your family and friends, making any gathering special. Whether you’re cooking for a festive occasion or simply craving a delightful meal, this recipe will guide you to create a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the process and relish every bite of this mouthwatering dish that brings a taste of Indonesia to your table!
