Balado Lele Goreng: Spicy Fried Catfish
Delight your taste buds with this Balado Lele Goreng, a popular Indonesian dish featuring fried catfish coated in a vibrant and aromatic chili sauce. This recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly flavorful, perfect for those who appreciate a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh catfish (Ikan lele) | 1/2 kg |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Chicken broth powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
| Spice Blend | |
| Red curly chilies (cabe merah keriting) | 25 pieces |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 4 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 2 cloves |
| Ripe red tomato | 1/2 piece |
Instructions
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Prepare the Catfish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the fresh catfish under running water. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
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Fry the Catfish: In a frying pan, heat enough cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the catfish and fry until they turn golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish. Once cooked, remove the catfish from the pan and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the red curly chilies, shallots, garlic, and ripe tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Sauté the Spice Mixture: In the same pan used for frying the catfish, heat 5 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the pan and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Season the Sauce: Pour in a bit of water, then sprinkle in the chicken broth powder and salt to taste. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens, about 5-10 minutes.
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Combine the Catfish and Sauce: Gently fold in the fried catfish into the spicy sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the catfish to absorb the flavors.
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Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the Balado Lele Goreng to a serving dish. Serve warm, accompanied by steamed rice and your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the spicy, tangy flavors of this delicious Indonesian classic!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | Varies (due to added salt and broth) |
This recipe for Balado Lele Goreng is sure to become a favorite in your home. Its balance of spice and savory elements brings a taste of Indonesia to your dining table, making it not just a meal, but a culinary experience that invites warmth and flavor into every bite.
