Lele Kemangi: A Flavorful Catfish Dish
Lele Kemangi is a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully marries the rich flavors of catfish with aromatic herbs, creating a delightful and satisfying meal. Perfectly served with warm rice and a side of fresh vegetables, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Catfish (Ikan Lele) | 1/2 kg (cut into pieces) |
| Red Chilies | 10 pieces |
| Small Chilies (to taste) | 10 pieces |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Candlenuts (Kemiri) | 3 pieces |
| Galangal (Kencur) | 2 slices |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Lemongrass (Sere) | 1 stalk |
| Kaffir Lime Leaf (Daun Jeruk) | 1 leaf |
| Thai Basil (Kemangi) | 100 grams (to taste) |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar | to taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Catfish
Start by frying the catfish pieces in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. This process enhances the flavor and adds a satisfying texture to the fish. -
-
Blend the Spices
While waiting for the fish to cook, take the red chilies, small chilies, shallots, garlic, candlenuts, and galangal. Using a mortar and pestle or a blender, grind these ingredients into a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture will form the base of your dish. -
Sauté the Spices
Once the catfish is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same oil, add the ground spice paste to the pan and sauté until it becomes fragrant. This step releases the essential oils and flavors from the spices, creating a tantalizing aroma. -
Add Fresh Herbs
After the spices are well sautéed, add the cleaned Thai basil, kaffir lime leaf, and lemongrass. Stir in the sugar and salt to balance the flavors. Continue cooking until the herbs are wilted and fragrant. -
Combine with Catfish
Finally, gently place the fried catfish back into the pan with the sautéed spice mixture. Ensure each piece of fish is coated well with the aromatic sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes so that the fish absorbs the flavors. -
Serve
Serve the Lele Kemangi hot with a side of steamed rice and boiled vegetables. This combination not only enhances the flavors of the dish but also adds a nutritional balance to your meal.
Enjoy Your Culinary Creation!
Lele Kemangi is a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Indonesian cuisine. With its vibrant flavors and delightful aromas, it is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to share the love through your culinary creations!
