Crispy Gurame with Spicy Sambal Matah

Ingredients

• 500 grams of gurame fish (1 medium-sized)
• Salt, to taste
• Sugar, to taste
• Turmeric, to taste
• Red shallots, finely sliced
• Red bird’s eye chilies, finely sliced
• Kaffir lime leaves, finely shredded
• Lime or lemon juice
• Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Soak the gurame fish in a mixture of salt, turmeric, and lime or lemon juice. Allow it to marinate for approximately 15 minutes. This step infuses the fish with flavor and prepares it for cooking.

2. Make the Sambal Matah:

   • Slice the red shallots and red bird’s eye chilies finely. Shred the kaffir lime leaves into thin strips.
   • Combine these ingredients in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of sugar, and a splash of lime or lemon juice to the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

3. Cook the Fish:

   • Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully take 2 tablespoons of the hot oil and pour it over the sambal matah mixture. This will slightly cook the sambal, enhancing its flavors.
   • Without turning off the heat, use the same oil to fry the marinated gurame fish until it is cooked through and golden brown. Ensure that the fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

4. Assemble and Serve:

   • Once the fish is cooked, place it on a serving plate and generously top it with the sambal matah.
   • Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.

Enjoy this flavorful Gurame Sambal Matah with a side of steamed rice for a delightful meal!