Lele Sambel Bawang: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Embark on a culinary journey with Lele Sambel Bawang, a delightful Indonesian dish that marries the succulent flavors of catfish with a zesty garlic chili sauce. This recipe not only brings warmth to your dining table but also serves as a vibrant representation of Indonesian cuisine. Let’s dive into the intricacies of preparing this flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
The following table outlines the ingredients needed to create this mouthwatering dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Catfish (Lele) | 1/2 kg |
| For the Lele Marinade | |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Coriander seeds (ketumbar) | 10 seeds |
| Turmeric (kunyit) | A pinch (seujung jari) |
| Salt (garam) | To taste (secukupnya) |
| For the Sambel Bawang | |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 4 cloves |
| Red curly chili (cabe merah keriting) | 10 pieces |
| Green bird’s eye chili (cabe rawit hijau) | 10 pieces |
| Salt (garam) | To taste (secukupnya) |
| Seasoning (penyedap) | To taste (secukupnya) |
Nutritional Information
While the precise nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a rough estimate for one serving of Lele Sambel Bawang is as follows:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Sodium | Varies (based on added salt and seasoning) |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious plate of Lele Sambel Bawang that will have everyone asking for seconds:
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Marinate the Catfish: Begin by thoroughly coating the catfish (lele) with the marinade made from the crushed garlic, coriander seeds, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Allow the fish to marinate for approximately 10 minutes. This step is crucial, as it infuses the fish with aromatic flavors that will enhance its taste when cooked.
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Fry the Catfish: In a large frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Carefully place the marinated catfish into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and fully cooked. This typically takes around 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish. Ensure the fish is crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
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Prepare the Sambel Bawang: After frying the catfish, reserve the remaining oil in the pan. Add the minced garlic, red curly chilies, and green bird’s eye chilies into the hot oil, sautéing them until they are fragrant and lightly golden. This step will enhance the flavors of the sambel, giving it a beautiful aroma that complements the fried catfish.
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Crush the Sambel Ingredients: Once sautéed, remove the sambel mixture from the heat and transfer it to a mortar and pestle (or a food processor). Crush the mixture coarsely to achieve a chunky consistency. Adjust the taste by adding salt and seasoning as necessary, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.
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Serve and Enjoy: To present the dish, place the fried catfish on a serving plate. Generously drizzle the sambel bawang over the top of the catfish, allowing the vibrant colors and enticing aromas to invite your guests.
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Final Touch: As a delightful way to close this experience, take a moment to appreciate your culinary creation, saying, “Let’s enjoy to try and eat with love!” This dish embodies the spirit of sharing and enjoyment, making every bite special.
Conclusion
Lele Sambel Bawang is more than just a dish; it’s a heartfelt representation of the flavors and traditions of Indonesian cooking. This recipe, brimming with bold spices and fresh ingredients, is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Share it with loved ones, and relish the joy of cooking and eating together. Bon appétit! 😚
