Bawal Mercon Recipe: Spicy Grilled Snapper
Bawal Mercon is a delightful Indonesian dish that features a whole snapper, infused with a fiery blend of spices and topped with a zesty sauce. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a hint of heat. The combination of fresh ingredients and spices creates a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this spicy culinary adventure!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Snapper (Bawal) | 1 whole |
Cooking Oil | As needed |
Jalapeño Peppers | 100 grams |
Tomato | 1 whole |
Shallots | 9 pieces |
Garlic | 3 cloves |
Lime | 1 whole |
Salt | To taste |
Flavor Enhancer | To taste |
Palm Sugar | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | Approximately 300 |
Protein | 25 grams |
Total Fat | 15 grams |
Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
Fiber | 2 grams |
Sugar | 5 grams |
Sodium | Varies |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on preparation and portion size.

Instructions
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Prepare the Snapper: Start by cleaning the snapper thoroughly. Rinse it under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. Season the fish with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance its flavor. Allow it to marinate while you prepare the spice mixture.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a pot, combine the jalapeño peppers, shallots, garlic, and tomato. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, and bring them to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Afterward, drain the water and blend the mixture into a smooth paste.
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Cook the Spices: In a skillet, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the spice paste you prepared earlier. Sauté the mixture for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste. Season the mixture with salt, flavor enhancer, and palm sugar. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
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Combine the Ingredients: Carefully place the marinated snapper into the skillet with the sautéed spices. Gently coat the fish with the spicy mixture, ensuring it is well covered. Allow the snapper to cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure even cooking. The goal is for the fish to absorb the vibrant flavors of the spices.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the snapper is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the fish to a serving platter, garnishing it with additional lime wedges and fresh herbs if desired. Serve this spicy grilled snapper hot, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
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Happy Cooking: Dive into this delicious Bawal Mercon and savor the explosion of flavors with every bite. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Tips:
- For an extra kick, you can increase the amount of jalapeño peppers or add chili flakes to the spice paste.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing cucumber salad or steamed vegetables to balance the heat.
Conclusion
Bawal Mercon is not just a meal; it’s an experience of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds tingling. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a casual dinner, this dish will undoubtedly steal the show. Enjoy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with others!