Mujair Nyat-Nyat: A Balinese Delight
Mujair Nyat-Nyat is a traditional Balinese dish that showcases the rich flavors of the region, featuring grilled mujair fish enveloped in a vibrant, aromatic sauce. This recipe will guide you through creating a delightful dish that embodies the essence of Bali, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 whole mujair fish, grilled
- Oil for frying
- 1 lime, juiced
- 15 bird’s eye chilies
- 2 large red chilies
- 1 cm turmeric
- 1 cm kencur (aromatic ginger)
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic
- 8 shallots
- Terasi (shrimp paste) to taste
- 1 tablespoon fried peanuts
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 200 ml water
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, grind the turmeric, kencur, fried peanuts, garlic, and large red chilies into a smooth paste. This aromatic blend forms the heart of your sauce.
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Incorporate Additional Ingredients: Add the bird’s eye chilies and roughly pound the shallots. Next, incorporate the sliced tomato, mashing it lightly to release its juices.
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Cook the Sauce: Heat a splash of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and cooked through. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Season the Sauce: Once boiling, add salt, pepper, sugar, and a splash of lime juice. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add the Fish: Gently place the grilled mujair fish into the sauce, reducing the heat to low. Let the fish simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.
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Serve: Once the fish has soaked up the essence of the sauce, transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and garnish with fresh lime if desired.
Enjoying Your Dish
Mujair Nyat-Nyat is best enjoyed with steamed rice, making for a wholesome and flavorful meal. The combination of spicy, tangy, and savory notes in this dish will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Bali, inviting everyone to indulge in this culinary delight. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting family dinner, this recipe showcases the beauty of Balinese cuisine in every bite. Enjoy!