Lele Sambal Simpel: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Dive into the rich culinary tradition of Indonesia with this vibrant and flavorful dish of Lele Sambal Simpel, featuring fresh catfish and a spicy sambal sauce that is sure to excite your taste buds. This recipe combines the savory elements of fried catfish with a homemade chili paste, creating a perfect balance of heat and flavor that can be enjoyed with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh catfish (Lele) | 500 grams |
| Red curly chili peppers | 5 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chili peppers | 2 pieces |
| Tomatoes | 2 pieces |
| ABC shrimp paste | 2 packets |
| Candlenuts (Kemiri) | 4 pieces |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Shallots | 5 pieces |
| Salt | To taste |
| Granulated sugar | To taste |
| Flavoring (optional) | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Catfish: Begin by frying the fresh catfish in hot oil until they are crispy and golden brown. This process helps to seal in the flavor and gives the fish a delightful texture.
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Make the Sambal: In a blender or food processor, combine the red curly chili peppers, bird’s eye chili peppers, garlic, shallots, candlenuts, ABC shrimp paste, salt, granulated sugar, and tomatoes. Blend these ingredients into a smooth paste, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
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Sauté the Paste: In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the blended sambal mixture and sauté it until fragrant. This step intensifies the flavors and releases the essential oils from the spices.
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Combine with Catfish: Once the sambal is fragrant, add the fried catfish to the skillet. Gently mix to coat the fish with the sambal. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little water to help the flavors infuse.
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Simmer: Allow the catfish to simmer in the sambal for a few minutes, letting the spices absorb into the fish. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
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Serve: Your Lele Sambal Simpel is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with a side of steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fats | 18 g |
| Sodium | Varies (based on salt used) |
| Sugar | 3 g |
This Lele Sambal Simpel is not only a delightful dish but also an easy way to introduce the bold flavors of Indonesian cuisine into your home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet meal, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!
