Balado Cakalang with Eggs

This delightful Indonesian dish features tender cakalang fish paired with hard-boiled eggs in a rich, spicy sauce, making it a flavorful addition to any meal. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat and depth in their culinary adventures, this recipe balances the savory flavors of the fish with a tantalizing spice mix.

Ingredients

• For the Fish:

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  • ½ kg cakalang fish (about 3 fish)
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1 lime (or lemon) for marinating

• Spice Paste:

  • 8 shallots
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 5 red chili peppers
  • 10 bird’s eye chili peppers (adjust according to your spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional)
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves
  • Shrimp paste (to taste)
  • Sugar (to taste)
  • Salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Start by cleaning the cakalang fish thoroughly. Cut each fish into two pieces. Marinate the fish with lime juice and salt, then fry until golden brown. Set aside once cooked.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine shallots, garlic, red chili peppers, and bird’s eye chili peppers to create a smooth spice paste.

3. Sauté the Spices:

   • Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste along with the kaffir lime leaves. Sauté until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom and release their essential oils.

4. Simmer the Sauce:

   • Pour in about half a cup of water and stir. Let the mixture simmer until the water reduces and the flavors concentrate.

5. Add the Eggs:

   • Gently incorporate the hard-boiled eggs into the pan, followed by sugar and salt. Stir well to ensure the eggs are evenly coated in the spicy sauce.

6. Combine with Fish:

   • Once the sauce has thickened and is aromatic, add the fried cakalang pieces into the pan. Mix carefully, ensuring the fish is well-coated with the sauce. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

7. Serve:

   • Serve your Balado Cakalang hot, accompanied by steamed rice to soak up the vibrant flavors of the dish. Enjoy the explosion of taste that this recipe offers!

Tips for a Perfect Dish

• Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili according to your heat preference. Adding or reducing the bird’s eye chili can significantly change the spice profile.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the fish and eggs.
• Storing Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

This Balado Cakalang with Eggs is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary journey with this authentic Indonesian delight!