Pecak Lele Sambal Kencur: A Flavorful Indonesian Dish
Indulge in the savory and aromatic delight of Pecak Lele Sambal Kencur, a traditional Indonesian dish that brings together crispy fried catfish, zesty sambal, and rich coconut milk. Perfect for a hearty meal, this recipe is a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures. Here’s how to prepare this delectable dish:
Ingredients:
For the Catfish:
- 1/2 kg catfish (approximately 6 pieces)
For the Sambal:
- 2 red chilies
- 6 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit)
- A small amount of kencur (aromatic galangal)
- A small amount of shrimp paste (terasi)
- 1 red onion
- A small amount of palm sugar (gula merah)
For the Coconut Milk:
- Grated coconut
- 1 glass of warm water
Additional Ingredients:
- Cucumber, sliced for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Catfish:
- Clean the catfish thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the catfish until they are golden brown and crispy. Once fried, set aside.
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Make the Sambal:
- In a mortar and pestle or food processor, combine the red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, kencur, shrimp paste, and red onion. Grind the mixture until it forms a smooth, fragrant paste.
- Adjust the seasoning with palm sugar to taste.
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Prepare the Coconut Milk:
- Place the grated coconut in a bowl and add approximately one glass of warm water. Mix well and squeeze the coconut to extract the coconut milk. Strain the milk through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solid bits.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Arrange the fried catfish pieces on a serving plate, placing two pieces per serving.
- Spoon the sambal generously over the catfish, using a pestle or spoon to press it into the fish slightly.
- Garnish with sliced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
- Drizzle the fresh coconut milk over the sambal-topped catfish.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Your Pecak Lele Sambal Kencur is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve this dish warm, alongside steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast.
This recipe embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine with its balanced mix of heat, sweetness, and rich, creamy coconut flavors. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and textures of Pecak Lele Sambal Kencur, a true culinary delight that’s sure to impress.
