Ikan Gembung Sambal Ijo: A Spicy Indonesian Delight
Ikan gembung sambal ijo, a traditional Indonesian dish, showcases the delightful combination of succulent fish and a vibrant green chili sambal that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish features a rich medley of flavors, making it perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bring a taste of Indonesia to your kitchen and impress your family and friends with this culinary gem.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan gembung (boiled mackerel) | 1 kg |
| Green chili (cabe ijo) | 100 grams (approximately 1 ons) |
| Bird’s eye chili (cabe rawit) | 10 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5 cloves |
| Salt (garam) | To taste |
| Cooking oil (minyak goreng) | As needed |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
Instructions
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Prepare the Cooking Oil: In a large frying pan or wok, heat sufficient cooking oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This step is crucial for ensuring that the fish fries evenly and attains a beautiful golden-brown color.
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Fry the Fish: Carefully add the boiled ikan gembung to the hot oil. Fry the fish until it is fully cooked and golden brown on all sides, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes depending on the thickness of the fish. Once done, remove the fish from the pan and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Prepare the Sambal: In the same oil, gently add the green chili, bird’s eye chili, shallots, garlic, and tomato. Fry these ingredients for just a few minutes until they become slightly softened and fragrant, being careful not to overcook them; a quick sauté will ensure they retain their fresh flavor.
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Blend the Ingredients: Using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine the fried chilies, shallots, garlic, and tomato into a coarse paste. This mixture will be the heart of your sambal, so feel free to adjust the texture to your preference—smooth or chunky.
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Season the Sambal: Add salt to the blended sambal according to your taste. Mix well to ensure the flavors meld together harmoniously.
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Combine and Serve: Gently fold the sambal into the fried fish, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the spicy mixture. Allow the flavors to infuse for a minute or two.
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Final Touches: Serve the ikan gembung sambal ijo hot, garnished with additional fresh green chilies or herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, providing a balanced meal that showcases the rich and spicy flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | Varies with salt added |
Conclusion
Ikan gembung sambal ijo not only tantalizes the palate but also embodies the spirit of Indonesian cooking, where fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors come together in a simple yet satisfying way. Whether you are preparing a casual family dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish promises to be a standout. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors that each bite brings and share the experience with loved ones around the dining table. Happy cooking!
