Spicy Grilled Bawal with Aromatic Kencur Sauce
Seruwit Bawal: A Delightful Spicy Fish Dish
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Seruwit Bawal, a traditional Indonesian dish that perfectly balances the freshness of the fish with a zesty, aromatic spice blend. This recipe showcases the beauty of local ingredients, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also deeply rooted in cultural heritage. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Bawal Fish | 1 whole |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | 3 finger lengths |
| Bird’s Eye Chili | 15 (to taste) |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Red Shallots | 3, sliced |
| Tomato | 1 |
| Palm Sugar | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
| Fresh Basil | a handful (for garnish) |
| Hot Water | as needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by grilling the fresh bawal fish until it is perfectly cooked and has a nice char. This will enhance the flavor and texture, making it succulent and delicious.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle or food processor, combine the bird’s eye chilies, garlic, kencur, and salt. Grind these ingredients until they form a smooth paste that is fragrant and vibrant.
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Chop the Aromatics: Slice the red shallots and tomato into thin pieces. This will add texture and freshness to your dish. Set aside.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the spice paste with the sliced shallots, tomato, and palm sugar. Stir in some hot water to create a sauce that’s not too thick, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Taste and Adjust: Give the sauce a good stir, then add the fresh basil leaves. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or palm sugar if needed, creating a balance of flavors that suits your palate.
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Final Assembly: Place the grilled bawal fish onto a serving plate. Generously spoon the flavorful sauce over the fish, ensuring every part is well-coated.
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Serve: Your Seruwit Bawal is now ready to be enjoyed! This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, allowing the rich and spicy flavors to shine through.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Dive into this delicious Seruwit Bawal and savor the aromatic and spicy essence of Indonesia. It’s a dish that not only warms the heart but also delights the senses, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy meal at home. Enjoy!


