Mujair Goreng: A Flavorful Fried Tilapia Delight
Mujair Goreng, or fried tilapia, is a beloved dish in many Indonesian households, celebrated for its crispy skin and flavorful meat. This recipe captures the essence of this traditional preparation, infusing the fish with aromatic spices and citrusy brightness that makes it truly irresistible. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide to creating this delicious dish, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large tilapia (mujair) | 2 whole, cleaned and gutted |
| Lime juice | From 1 lime |
| Spice Blend | |
| Garlic cloves | 4 cloves |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 2 nuts |
| Fresh turmeric | 2-inch piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 0g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the tilapia. Ensure that the stomach is emptied and scales are removed. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. -
-
Marinate with Lime and Salt:
In a bowl, squeeze the juice of one lime over the fish, ensuring it’s well coated. Sprinkle salt generously both inside and outside of the fish. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. After marinating, rinse the fish gently to remove excess salt and lime juice. -
Create the Spice Paste:
In a food processor or mortar and pestle, combine the garlic cloves, candlenuts, and fresh turmeric. Add a pinch of salt to help with the grinding process. Blend or pound until you achieve a smooth paste. This fragrant spice blend will infuse the fish with rich flavors. -
Apply the Spice Mixture:
Rub the spice paste all over the fish, ensuring that it gets into all the crevices. Allow the fish to marinate for an additional 30 minutes, which will enhance the taste as the spices penetrate the flesh. -
Fry the Fish:
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated fish into the pan. Fry until the fish turns golden brown and crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish. You can adjust the cooking time to reach your desired level of crispiness. -
Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot, accompanied by a wedge of lime and your favorite dipping sauce for an extra zing.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Mujair Goreng is best enjoyed fresh, ideally with a side of steamed rice and a simple vegetable salad. The combination of the crispy fish and zesty lime creates a delightful contrast, making each bite a celebration of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress!
