Balado Ikan Kuniran: A Savory Indonesian Delight
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of kuniran fish
- 2 bay leaves
- 5 shallots, finely sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
For the Spice Paste:
- 5 cloves garlic
- 5 large red chilies
- 7 bird’s eye chilies
- 3 tomatoes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the kuniran fish. Season it with salt and let it marinate for 1 hour. After marinating, fry the fish in hot oil until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, set the fish aside. -
Make the Spice Paste:
While the fish is frying, prepare the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and tomatoes. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. -
Cook the Spice Paste:
Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and bay leaves, and sauté until the shallots are soft and translucent. Next, add the prepared spice paste to the pan. Continue to sauté until the paste is partially reduced and aromatic. -
Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the sugar and additional salt. Add the fried fish into the pan, gently tossing to ensure that the fish is evenly coated with the spice mixture. Cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Adjust and Serve:
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary. Once the flavors are balanced, remove from heat. Serve the Balado Ikan Kuniran hot, alongside steamed rice for a delightful meal.
Enjoy this flavorful and spicy Indonesian dish that perfectly complements a bowl of warm rice!
