Grilled Catfish with Sweet Soy Sauce (Lele Bakar Kecap)
Ingredients
- 500 grams of medium-sized catfish (cleaned, headless)
- Instant fried fish seasoning
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Brown sugar, to taste
- Sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis)
- A drizzle of cooking oil
- Vinegar or lime juice
Instructions
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Prepare the Catfish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the catfish, ensuring it is free of any residual impurities. Marinate the fish with vinegar or lime juice to infuse it with a tangy flavor. For larger catfish (about the size of your forearm), slice them into 1-inch thick pieces. If using medium-sized fish, you can leave them whole.
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Season the Fish: Rub the fish with instant fried fish seasoning and allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes. This step ensures the fish absorbs all the delightful flavors.
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Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill and lightly oil the grates with cooking oil or margarine to prevent sticking. Place the fish on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until they are halfway done.
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Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, finely crush the garlic and combine it with ground black pepper and brown sugar. Add a splash of water and sweet soy sauce, mixing until well blended. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Glaze the Fish: Once the fish is halfway cooked, brush the sweet soy sauce mixture generously over the fish. Continue grilling until the fish is cooked through and the flavors have deeply infused.
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Serve: Serve your grilled catfish with sambal terasi (a spicy shrimp paste sauce) and fresh vegetables for a delightful and authentic accompaniment.
Enjoy your delicious Lele Bakar Kecap, a dish that beautifully showcases the rich flavors of Indonesia!