Spicy Fried Tilapia (Ikan Nila Goreng Balado)
Ingredients
- 1 kg tilapia fish (Ikan Nila)
- 100 grams curly red chilies (Cabe Merah Keriting)
- 7 shallots (Bawang Merah)
- 2 cloves garlic (Bawang Putih)
- A small piece of ginger (Sedikit Jahe)
- 1/2 lime (Jeruk Nipis)
- Salt (Secukupnya)
- Sugar (Secukupnya)
- Cooking oil (Minyak Goreng)
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the tilapia thoroughly. Cut the fish into two pieces, making a slit along the body to ensure even cooking. Rinse and set aside.
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Marinate the Fish: In a mortar, grind the garlic and ginger with salt until smooth. Rub this mixture over the fish, ensuring it is well-coated. Let the fish marinate for approximately 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
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Prepare the Chili Mixture: Coarsely grind the curly red chilies and shallots together. This will form the spicy topping for the dish.
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Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully add the marinated fish to the hot oil, frying until the fish turns golden brown and crispy on the outside. This should take about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish.
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Sauté the Chili Mixture: Using the oil left from frying the fish, sauté the coarsely ground chili and shallot mixture. Lower the heat to prevent burning, then add the lime juice and adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar to taste. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and no liquid remains.
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Combine and Serve: Finally, generously coat the fried fish with the sautéed chili mixture. Your Spicy Fried Tilapia is now ready to be served!
Enjoy this vibrant dish with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal spread, bringing a touch of Indonesian flavor to your table!