Lele Goreng Gurih: A Flavorful Fried Catfish Recipe

Indulging in the rich flavors of Lele Goreng Gurih, or fried catfish, offers a delightful experience that marries simplicity with taste. This dish is perfect for any meal and is especially loved for its crispy texture and aromatic spices. Follow this straightforward recipe to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 500 grams catfish (Ikan Lele), cleaned
• Juice of asam (tamarind), to taste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 cloves garlic, finely ground
• 1 cm turmeric, finely ground
• 1 cm ginger, finely ground
• 1 tablespoon coriander, finely ground
• Additional salt to taste
• Skewers (for grilling)
• Cooking oil, as needed for frying

Instructions

1. Marinate the Catfish: Begin by coating the cleaned catfish evenly with tamarind juice and salt. Allow it to marinate for a few minutes, letting the flavors start to penetrate the fish.

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2. Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a bowl, combine the marinated fish with the ground spices: garlic, turmeric, ginger, coriander, and any additional salt to taste. Mix well, ensuring that each piece of fish is thoroughly covered with the aromatic blend. Let the fish sit for at least 5 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse deeply.

3. Skewering the Fish: To prevent the fish from curling while frying, carefully skewer each piece of fish from mouth to tail using the skewers. This step not only helps maintain the fish’s shape but also ensures even cooking.

4. Frying the Catfish: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat sufficient oil over medium heat until hot. Gently place the skewered fish into the hot oil, frying until golden brown and fully cooked. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the fish and allow it to drain on paper towels to eliminate excess oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once drained, your Lele Goreng Gurih is ready to be served! Pair it with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables or a tangy dipping sauce to elevate the dish even further.

Tips for Perfectly Fried Catfish

• Ensure the Oil is Hot: This prevents the fish from absorbing too much oil, resulting in a crispy exterior.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your personal preferences, adding more garlic or adjusting the salt as needed.
• Resting Time: Allowing the fish to rest after marinating ensures the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite burst with taste.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a beautifully crispy and flavorful Lele Goreng Gurih that will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful textures and tastes of this traditional dish!