Nila Bakar Bumbu Padang is a delightful Indonesian dish that features grilled Nile fish marinated in a rich and aromatic spice blend. This recipe combines bold flavors and spices, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a special meal at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nile fish | 4 fish |
| Lime | 1 piece |
| Spice Blend | |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Red chilies | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 17 pieces |
| Turmeric | 1 small piece |
| Ginger | 3 small pieces |
| Candlenuts | 2 nuts |
| Ground coriander | 1 tablespoon |
| Coconut milk | 1/2 cup |
| Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Lemongrass | 2 stalks (bruised) |
| Margarine | for grilling |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Rinse the Nile fish thoroughly with lime juice, then wash it with water. Season with salt and let it rest for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Sauté the Spices: In a pan, sauté the ground spice mixture along with the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and bruised lemongrass until fragrant.
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Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, cooking until the sauce thickens and reduces.
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Marinate the Fish: Rub the fish with a portion of the spice mixture, allowing it to marinate for 15 minutes for the flavors to penetrate.
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Grill the Fish: Heat a non-stick frying pan and add a little margarine. Grill the fish over low heat, turning occasionally and basting with the remaining marinade to ensure even cooking.
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Serve: Once the fish is fully cooked and beautifully charred, serve it hot with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
This Nila Bakar Bumbu Padang is not only flavorful but also embodies the vibrant culinary traditions of Indonesia, making it an ultimate choice for seafood lovers. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!