Nila Goreng Cabe Ijo: A Delicious Fried Nile Fish with Green Chili Sauce

Discover the delightful flavors of Nila Goreng Cabe Ijo, a popular Indonesian dish that showcases the tender, succulent taste of Nile fish, perfectly fried to golden perfection and paired with a spicy green chili sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic option for a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

6 Nile Fish (Ikan Nila): Fresh and cleaned, ready for cooking.
1 pack of Sajiku Kentucky Flour: This seasoned flour gives the fish a crispy coating.
30 Bird’s Eye Chili (Cabe Rawit): Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
10 Cloves of Garlic (Bawang Putih): For a fragrant and flavorful sauce.
Cooking Oil (Minyak Goreng): Sufficient for frying the fish.
Seasoning (Penyedap): To enhance the flavors of the dish.
Salt (Garam): To taste, for seasoning the fish.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Begin by carefully slicing the Nile fish, making sure not to cut all the way through. This technique allows for better seasoning and cooking. Rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. To eliminate the fishy odor, rub the fish with salt and a squeeze of lime juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes for the flavors to penetrate.

Step 2: Coat the Fish

Once the fish is cleaned and seasoned, take the Sajiku Kentucky flour and mix it with a little water to create a wet batter. Coat each fish generously with the batter, ensuring an even layer for that perfect crispy texture.

Step 3: Fry the Fish

In a deep frying pan or wok, heat sufficient cooking oil over medium heat. Carefully place the battered fish into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Green Chili Sauce

In the same oil used for frying, add the bird’s eye chili and garlic. Fry them briefly until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Using a mortar and pestle or food processor, grind the fried chili and garlic into a coarse paste. Adjust the consistency with a little bit of leftover oil if necessary. Season with salt and seasoning to taste, mixing thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the beautifully fried Nile fish on a plate, accompanied by the vibrant green chili sauce. Pair this delightful dish with steaming hot rice for a complete and satisfying meal that will delight your taste buds.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Nila Goreng Cabe Ijo is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and textures that embody the spirit of Indonesian cuisine. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the crunch of the fish, the heat from the chili, and the warmth of freshly cooked rice—all coming together to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.