Ikan Benggol Penyet Orek

This delightful Indonesian dish features the savory and tangy flavors of Ikan Benggol, a popular fish, marinated and served with a spicy sambal orek. Perfect for those looking to explore unique flavors, this recipe is simple yet satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 4 pieces Ikan Benggol (or your preferred fish)
• 5 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
• A pinch of turmeric powder (optional)

For the Sambal Orek:

• 5 pieces bird’s eye chili (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 clove garlic
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Sugar and salt to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish:
   Begin by marinating the Ikan Benggol with vinegar, salt, a hint of turmeric, and ground coriander for about 15 minutes. This step enhances the fish’s flavor, making it tender and zesty.

   Related Articles

   • 
     Smoky Stingray Sambal Delight
   • 
     Savory Indonesian Patin Fish Stew with Spicy Tamarind Broth
   • 
     Crispy Fried Gourami with Zesty Green Chili Sauce
   • 
     Crispy Gurameh Delight: Golden Fried Fish Recipe

2. Fry the Fish:
   Heat oil in a pan until it reaches a high temperature. This is crucial to prevent the fish from sticking. Fry the fish until it reaches your desired doneness. Some enjoy it slightly undercooked, while others prefer it fully crispy. For a perfect fry, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish.

3. Prepare the Sambal Orek:
   While the fish is frying, prepare the sambal orek. Adjust the number of chilies according to your spice preference. For those who find garlic too strong, feel free to reduce the amount. Crush the chilies and garlic together in a mortar and pestle until you achieve a coarse paste.

4. Cook the Sambal:
   Once the sambal mixture is ready, heat the oil again until it’s very hot. Carefully pour the hot oil over the crushed chili mixture, listening for that satisfying sizzle. This step releases the aromatic flavors of the sambal.

5. Final Touch:
   Taste the sambal and adjust the seasoning with sugar and salt to your liking. Finally, it’s time to assemble your dish. Gently press the fried fish to flatten it slightly, then top it with the fragrant sambal orek.

6. Serve:
   Enjoy your Ikan Benggol Penyet Orek hot, served with steamed rice or your choice of side dishes.

Tips:

• For a less spicy sambal, reduce the number of chilies or add more garlic for a milder flavor.
• Ensure your frying oil is hot enough to prevent sticking, and fry in batches if necessary for the best results.

This Ikan Benggol Penyet Orek is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Indonesia to your table, showcasing the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of the region. Enjoy the cooking process and savor every bite!