Crispy Mackerel with Spicy Balado Sauce

Ingredients:

• 3 mackerel fish (ikan kembung)
• 1/2 lime
• For the Balado Spice Blend:
  • 4 red shallots (bawang merah)
  • 3 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
  • 3 curly red chilies (cabe kriting)
  • 2 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit)
  • 1 tomato
  • Sugar, to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • Cooking oil
• For Marinating the Fish:
  • A piece of ginger
  • A piece of turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds (ketumbar)
  • 3 cloves garlic (bawang putih)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Clean the mackerel fish thoroughly and then rub them with lime juice and the prepared spice mix. Set aside and let it marinate to absorb the flavors.

2. Fry the Fish:

   • Heat some cooking oil in a pan and fry the mackerel until they are cooked through and crispy. Remove the fish from the pan and drain on paper towels. Set aside.

3. Make the Balado Sauce:

   • Heat oil in a pan. Add all the finely ground spices (shallots, garlic, curly red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and tomato) and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the spice mixture.
   • Add sugar and salt to taste. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and the liquid reduces. Remove from heat.

4. Serve:

   • Arrange the fried mackerel on a serving plate. Pour the balado sauce over the fish, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This recipe combines the bold flavors of Indonesian balado sauce with crispy mackerel, making for a delectable and spicy seafood dish that’s sure to please.