Mujair Bakar Sambal Kecap: Grilled Mujair with Sweet Soy Sauce
Overview
Mujair Bakar Sambal Kecap is a tantalizing Indonesian dish featuring grilled mujair fish, marinated in a zesty mix of lime and spices, then paired with a vibrant sambal kecap that brings together the flavors of sweet soy sauce, fresh chilies, and tangy tomatoes. Perfect for gatherings or family meals, this dish is not only visually appealing but also packs a punch of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Let’s dive into the detailed ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions to create this culinary delight that embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Mujair
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mujair fish | 1 whole (approx. 400 g) |
| Lime juice | 1 lime |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Cooking oil | 6 tbsp |
| Spice Blend (to be ground) | |
| Shallots | 7 pieces |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Red curly chilies | 7 pieces |
| Coriander | 1 tsp |
| Shrimp paste (terasi) | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1 ⅓ tsp |
For the Sambal Kecap
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 3 pieces, finely chopped |
| Red bird’s eye chilies | 4 pieces, thinly sliced |
| Tomato | ½ piece, chopped |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 50 ml |
| Lime juice | 1 tsp |
| Warm water | 3 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 320 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish:
- Start by cleaning the mujair fish thoroughly, ensuring that it is free from any scales or innards. To enhance flavor and texture, make diagonal slashes along the sides of the fish.
- In a bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice and salt, then rub this mixture all over the fish, making sure to coat the inside and outside. Let the fish marinate for about 15 minutes while you prepare the spices.
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-
Prepare the Spice Blend:
- In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, red curly chilies, coriander, shrimp paste, and salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the spice mixture and sauté until fragrant and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
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Marinate the Fish:
- Once the spice blend has cooled, generously rub it over the entire surface of the mujair fish, ensuring that the spices penetrate into the slashes made earlier.
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Grill the Fish:
- Preheat a grilling pan (or a “happy call” pan) over low to medium heat. Once heated, carefully place the marinated fish onto the grill.
- Grill the mujair fish for approximately 15-20 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. You may baste the fish with a little oil during cooking to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
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Prepare the Sambal Kecap:
- While the fish is grilling, prepare the sambal kecap by mixing the finely chopped shallots, sliced bird’s eye chilies, chopped tomato, and salt in a bowl.
- Add the sweet soy sauce, lime juice, and warm water to the mixture. Stir everything together until well combined, creating a vibrant, flavorful sambal that will complement the grilled fish.
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Serve:
- Once the mujair is perfectly grilled, carefully remove it from the heat and place it on a serving platter.
- Serve the grilled mujair hot, alongside a generous bowl of sambal kecap. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables, providing a complete and satisfying meal that your guests will adore.
Conclusion
Mujair Bakar Sambal Kecap is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine. The combination of marinated grilled fish and the refreshing sambal kecap creates a delightful experience for the palate. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises to impress with its bold tastes and inviting aromas. So gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Indonesia!
