Ikan Tongkol Balado Simple: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Discover the tantalizing flavors of Indonesia with this simple yet delicious Ikan Tongkol Balado recipe, perfect for a delightful family meal or a special gathering. This dish showcases the rich taste of mackerel combined with a spicy and aromatic sambal, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create this culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh mackerel fish | 2 whole fish |
| Red chili peppers | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chili peppers | 5 pieces |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Tomato | 1 medium-sized |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values will depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, this dish is generally high in protein and offers a good balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats from the fish. The fresh ingredients provide essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a nutritious meal.
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the mackerel. After washing, fry the fish until it is half-cooked, achieving a light golden color. This initial frying helps to lock in the flavors and creates a beautiful texture.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a food processor or mortar and pestle, blend the shallots, garlic, red chili peppers, and salt into a smooth paste. This mixture will be the foundation of your sambal, providing the vibrant flavor profile that defines this dish.
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Prepare the Tomato: Dice the tomato into small cubes. This will add freshness and acidity to balance the heat from the chilies.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste to the hot oil, allowing it to sauté until fragrant and cooked through, approximately 3-5 minutes. Be sure to stir continuously to prevent burning.
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Incorporate the Tomato: Add the diced tomato to the pan along with a pinch of sugar. Stir well and let it cook until the tomato softens, releasing its juices into the mixture.
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Add Water: Pour in a small amount of water to create a sauce. This will help to marry all the flavors together and create a delicious coating for the fish.
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Combine with the Fish: Gently add the half-cooked mackerel to the pan, ensuring that each piece is coated with the sambal. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, letting the fish absorb the flavors. Make sure to cook on low heat to avoid overcooking the fish.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sambal and adjust the seasoning with salt, flavor enhancer, and sugar as desired. This step is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
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Serve: Once the fish is cooked through and the sambal is aromatic and flavorful, transfer your Ikan Tongkol Balado to a serving plate. This dish is best enjoyed warm, accompanied by steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Ikan Tongkol Balado is not only a feast for the palate but also a wonderful way to experience Indonesian cuisine at its finest. With its simple preparation and explosive flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary journey with every bite!
