Spicy Indonesian Mackerel (Cue Tongkol Balado)

Cue Tongkol Balado

Ingredients

• 5 pieces of cue tongkol (mackerel), cut into halves
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Sugar, to taste

For the Spice Paste

• 4 shallots
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2 large red chilies
• 5 curly red chilies (add more if you prefer it spicier)
• 1/2 tomato (optional, can be skipped)

Steps

1. Prepare All Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for the recipe.
2. Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the mackerel pieces until they are halfway to golden brown, nearly cooked through. Remove from oil and set aside.
3. Make the Spice Paste: Using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the shallots, garlic, large red chilies, curly red chilies, and tomato (if using) into a smooth paste.
4. Cook the Spice Paste: In the same frying pan, heat some oil. Add the spice paste and sauté until it is half-cooked and aromatic. Then, add the kaffir lime leaves and stir until fragrant.
5. Season the Paste: Add salt and sugar to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary.
6. Combine and Cook: Return the fried fish pieces to the pan. Stir to coat the fish evenly with the spice paste. Continue cooking until the fish is fully cooked and the flavors are well absorbed.

Note

• For a richer, more robust flavor, consider adding the tomato to the spice paste.

Enjoy your delicious Cue Tongkol Balado! This spicy Indonesian dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and fresh vegetables.