Lele Sambal Balado Praktis: A Flavorful Indonesian Catfish Dish
Lele Sambal Balado, a beloved Indonesian specialty, brings together the savory flavors of catfish and a spicy, aromatic sambal that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Below is a detailed recipe to guide you through creating this delightful meal, ensuring that each step and ingredient is perfectly outlined for your success in the kitchen.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Catfish (Ikan Lele) | 500 grams (cleaned thoroughly) |
| Red chilies (Cabai Merah) | 3 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (Cabai Rawit) | 5 pieces (adjust to taste) |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 3 cloves |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 2 pieces |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium-sized |
| Palm sugar (Gula Jawa) | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer (Penyedap Rasa) | To taste |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| Oil (Minyak) | As needed (for frying and sautéing) |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information Table (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Fat | 20 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | Varies (based on added salt) |
Preparation Steps
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Fry the Catfish: Begin by heating sufficient oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cleaned catfish (Ikan Lele) and fry until it is golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the catfish from the oil and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Prepare the Sambal: While the catfish is frying, take the red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, garlic, shallots, and tomatoes and blend them into a smooth paste. You can use a mortar and pestle or a food processor for this step.
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Sauté the Spice Mix: In the same pan, using the remaining oil, sauté the blended spice mixture over medium heat. Cook until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine with the Catfish: Once the sambal is aromatic and bubbling, gently add the fried catfish to the pan.
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Season and Simmer: Add enough water to create a sauce consistency, followed by the palm sugar, flavor enhancer, and salt to taste. Stir everything gently to ensure the catfish is well coated in the sambal. Allow it to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
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Serve: Once the sambal has thickened slightly and the catfish is infused with the vibrant flavors, remove from heat. Serve the Lele Sambal Balado hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Lele Sambal Balado is not just a meal; it is a celebration of flavors that encapsulate the essence of Indonesian cuisine. With its harmonious blend of spices and the tender catfish, this dish will surely be a hit at any dinner table, showcasing the delightful culinary heritage of Indonesia. Enjoy cooking and sharing this practical recipe with your family and friends, and let the delicious aromas fill your kitchen!
