Balado Bandeng Presto: A Flavorful Delight
Balado Bandeng Presto is an exquisite dish that celebrates the unique flavors of Indonesian cuisine, particularly known for its bold spices and tender fish. This recipe combines the rich taste of presto bandeng (milkfish) with a vibrant chili sauce, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions and nutritional information to help you create this delicious dish in your kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bandeng Presto (small) | 3 pieces |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 5 pieces |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 4 cloves |
| Red Curly Chilies (Cabe Merah Keriting) | 10 pieces |
| Medium Tomato | 1 piece |
| Fresh Turmeric (Kunyit) | 2 finger lengths |
| Bay Leaves (Daun Salam) | 2 leaves |
| Galangal (Laos) | 2 slices |
| Lemongrass (Sere) | 1 stalk |
| Palm Sugar (Gula Jawa) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
Preparing the Spice Blend
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Make the Spice Paste: Start by blending the shallots, garlic, red curly chilies, and turmeric into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor. This blend is essential for infusing the dish with flavor.
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Sauté the Spices: In a pan over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the spice paste until fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes. Be sure to include the bay leaves, galangal, and lemongrass to enhance the aroma and depth of flavor.
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Add Water: Pour a small amount of water into the pan with the sautéed spices and bring it to a boil. This will help to release the flavors and create a sauce base.
Cooking the Bandeng
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Add the Fish: Once the water reaches a rolling boil, gently add the bandeng into the pan. If you prefer a drier version, consider frying the bandeng first until lightly golden before adding it to the sauce.
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Season the Dish: Add the palm sugar and salt to the pan, adjusting the amounts to suit your taste preferences. Stir gently to coat the fish in the flavorful sauce.
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Simmer and Reduce: Allow the dish to simmer until the water has reduced significantly and thickened to your desired consistency. This process should take about 15-20 minutes.
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Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors melded beautifully, remove the pan from heat. Serve the Balado Bandeng Presto hot, garnished with extra chilies or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Conclusion
Balado Bandeng Presto is more than just a dish; it is an experience, offering a delicious explosion of flavors that highlights the beauty of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasions, this dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome addition to your dining table. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful recipe, and feel free to experiment with the spice levels to suit your palate!
