Geprek Lele with Kremesan: A Flavorful Delight
Indulge in the rich and savory experience of Geprek Lele, a traditional Indonesian dish that perfectly marries the crispiness of fried catfish with a spicy, aromatic sambal. Accompanied by Kremesan, a delightful crispy topping, this dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. Follow this simple recipe to create a mouthwatering experience that showcases the bold flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Geprek Lele:
- 1 whole catfish (Lele)
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 shallots
- 6 small red chilies (cabe rawit merah)
- 2 curly red chilies (cabe merah keriting)
- Salt, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of used cooking oil (from frying the catfish)
- 3 tablespoons of seasoning flour (such as Sajiku, Sasa, or Kobe), which gives a crispy fried chicken-like texture
For the Kremesan:
(Refer to the previous recipe for the Kremesan preparation)

Instructions
-
Prepare the Catfish:
Begin by seasoning the catfish with the seasoning flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the catfish until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, set it aside on a plate to drain any excess oil. -
Make the Sambal:
In a mortar and pestle (or a blender), combine the shallots and garlic, grinding them to a fine paste. Next, add the small red chilies, followed by the curly red chilies, continuing to blend until everything is well incorporated. Finally, add salt and sugar to taste, along with the tablespoon of used frying oil. Mix well and taste to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. -
Combine and Serve:
Once your sambal is prepared, add the fried catfish to the mixture. Gently crush the catfish (geprek) and stir to ensure that the sambal is evenly distributed throughout the fish. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory dish that’s bursting with flavor. -
Ready to Enjoy:
Serve your Geprek Lele hot, garnished with crispy Kremesan on top for an extra crunch. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a savory snack.
Note:
When adding salt to the sambal, use it sparingly. The seasoning flour already contains salt, which can make the dish overly salty if not balanced properly.
Enjoy Your Cooking Adventure!
This delightful dish is not just about great flavors but also about the joy of cooking and sharing with loved ones. Enjoy your culinary journey with Geprek Lele and make sure to check out the Kremesan recipe for that perfect crispy touch!
Happy cooking!