Lele Kremes: Crispy Fried Catfish
Lele kremes, a delightful Indonesian dish, features the tender meat of catfish enveloped in a crispy, seasoned coating. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy combining flavors with texture, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and mouthwatering. Follow this detailed guide to create your own Lele Kremes, which is ideal for family gatherings or simply enjoying a delicious meal at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Catfish (Lele) | 4 whole fish |
| Rice Flour (Rose Brand) | 8 tablespoons |
| Cornstarch (Maizena) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Candlenuts (Kemiri) | To taste (or according to preference) |
| Coriander (Ketumbar) | To taste (or according to preference) |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | To taste (or according to preference) |
| Water | Enough to create a batter |
| Cooking Oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Instructions
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Prepare the Catfish:
Begin by cleaning the catfish thoroughly and patting them dry with a paper towel. Once cleaned, marinate the fish by combining crushed candlenuts, coriander, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt to create a yellow seasoning blend. Use a mortar and pestle or food processor to achieve a smooth paste. Rub this mixture generously over the fish, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. For the best flavor, allow the fish to marinate for at least 30 minutes. -
Make the Kremes Batter:
While the fish is marinating, prepare the kremes batter. In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and cornstarch. Add the finely ground spices that you used for marinating the fish, adjusting the quantity according to your taste preferences. Gradually pour in enough water to create a batter that is thin and slightly runny—this will help achieve the desired crispiness when fried. -
Fry the Catfish:
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, dip each marinated catfish into the kremes batter, ensuring it is evenly coated before gently placing it into the hot oil. Fry the fish until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once cooked, transfer the fried catfish to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. -
Prepare the Kremes:
In the same hot oil, take about 3-4 tablespoons of the remaining kremes batter and pour it directly into the oil. Let it fry undisturbed until it turns golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. You can gently stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the kremes from the oil and drain them on paper towels. -
Serve:
Your Lele Kremes is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve the crispy fried catfish on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs or sliced cucumbers if desired. Accompany with sambal (a spicy chili paste) or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This delectable Lele Kremes recipe showcases the beautiful flavors of Indonesian cuisine, bringing together the rich taste of catfish with the crunchiness of the kremes coating. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast, making it a beloved dish for many. Share this recipe with friends and family to bring a taste of Indonesia to your dining table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
