Sweet and Sour Bandeng (Milkfish) Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 whole bandeng (milkfish)
- 6 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit), finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- Palm sugar (gula merah) to taste
- A splash of water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fish: Start by cleaning and cutting the bandeng into manageable pieces. This will help ensure that the flavors penetrate the fish more effectively.
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Prepare the Aromatics: In a separate bowl, finely chop the bird’s eye chilies, mince the garlic, and slice the shallots. This mix will create a fragrant base for your dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan or skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced shallots, and chopped chilies. Sauté until the mixture becomes aromatic and the shallots are translucent.
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Add Water and Fish: Pour in a small splash of water to deglaze the pan, then gently add the pieces of bandeng along with the julienned carrot. This will create a light broth that will infuse the fish with flavor.
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Season the Dish: Don’t forget to add the sweet soy sauce and fine salt at this stage. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the fish is evenly coated with the sauce.
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Sweeten to Taste: Finally, add palm sugar according to your taste preference, adjusting the sweetness to balance the flavors.
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Serve: Allow the dish to simmer until the fish is cooked through and the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve hot with steamed rice for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your cooking experience! This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for a quick family meal without all the fuss. Happy cooking!
