Ikan Mas Terbang Sambal Dabu-Dabu

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this exquisite recipe for Ikan Mas Terbang Sambal Dabu-Dabu, where crispy fried tilapia meets a vibrant, fresh chili sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a wonderful way to showcase the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia.

Ingredients

• 1 whole tilapia (ikan mas)
• 1 lemon
• Salt (garam)
• Black pepper (lada)
• Garlic powder (bawang putih bubuk)
• 7 red chilies (cabe merah)
• 1 ripe red tomato (tomat merah)
• 5 shallots (bawang merah)
• Cooking oil (for frying)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the tilapia thoroughly, removing any scales and impurities. This can be accomplished by making a slight incision along the belly of the fish to allow for easier cleaning.

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2. Score the Fish: Using a sharp knife, carefully make diagonal cuts on both sides of the fish from tail to head, taking care not to cut all the way through. This scoring technique helps the fish to cook evenly and absorb flavors. Rinse the fish under running water to ensure it’s clean.

3. Season the Fish: Place the cleaned fish in a bowl and season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cut the lemon in half, squeezing the juice of one half over the fish, ensuring an even coating. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes while you prepare the sambal dabu-dabu.

4. Make the Sambal Dabu-Dabu: In a small bowl, finely chop the shallots, red chilies, and red tomato. Combine these ingredients together. Squeeze the juice of the remaining lemon half over the chopped mixture, then add a pinch of salt and a touch of sugar to enhance the flavors. Mix everything well until evenly incorporated.

5. Infuse the Sambal: In a small pan, heat a little cooking oil until hot, then pour it over the sambal mixture. This step will release the vibrant flavors of the fresh ingredients, creating a deliciously fragrant sambal dabu-dabu.

6. Fry the Fish: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat a generous amount of oil until it is hot enough for frying. Carefully hold the head of the fish and gently lower it into the hot oil, ensuring the fish is fully submerged for an even fry. Fry until the fish is golden brown and cooked through, then lift it out and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

7. Serve: Arrange the perfectly fried tilapia on a serving platter, then generously drizzle the vibrant sambal dabu-dabu over the top. This not only enhances the presentation but also infuses the fish with a burst of flavor.

Enjoying Your Dish

Ikan Mas Terbang Sambal Dabu-Dabu is best enjoyed hot, paired with steamed rice and perhaps a side of fresh vegetables. This dish not only exemplifies the harmony of flavors in Indonesian cooking but also brings a vibrant, colorful experience to your dining table. Whether it’s a family meal or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Dive into the deliciousness and enjoy every bite!