Ikan Kembung Rica-Rica: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Ikan Kembung Rica-Rica is a popular Indonesian dish renowned for its rich flavors and fragrant spices. The combination of fresh mackerel fish with a spicy, aromatic sauce makes it a favorite among seafood lovers. This recipe brings together the essence of traditional Indonesian cooking, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or a special dinner. Let’s dive into the details of this vibrant dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Mackerel Fish (Ikan Kembung) | 5 pieces |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 3 pieces |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 4 cloves |
| Chilies (Cabe) | To taste |
| Coriander (Ketumbar) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper (Lada) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric (Kunyit) | 1 teaspoon |
| Basil Leaves (Daun Kemangi) | A handful |
| Lemongrass (Sereh) | 1 stalk, bruised |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| MSG (Mecin) | Optional, to taste |
| Water (Air) | As needed |
| Cooking Oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | Varies by seasoning |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the mackerel fish thoroughly under running water. Once cleaned, rub the fish with a pinch of salt and your choice of spices to season it well. Set it aside for a few minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
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Fry the Fish: In a large frying pan, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Carefully place the seasoned fish into the hot oil, frying until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Once cooked, remove the fish from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Blend the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar and pestle, combine the shallots, garlic, chilies, coriander, black pepper, and turmeric. Blend or pound the ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste. This spice blend is the heart of your rica-rica sauce, so take your time to ensure it’s well mixed.
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Sauté the Spices: In the same frying pan, add a little more oil if necessary and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the blended spice paste. Sauté the paste until it becomes fragrant and begins to darken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
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Simmer with Basil: Pour in enough water to create a sauce, and add the bruised lemongrass and the cleaned basil leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.
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Combine Fish and Sauce: Carefully add the fried mackerel to the simmering sauce, making sure to coat each piece with the flavorful mixture. Gently stir to ensure the fish absorbs the aromatic sauce, cooking for another 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and optional MSG according to your preference.
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Serve: Once the fish is well coated and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat. Serve your Ikan Kembung Rica-Rica hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, allowing you to savor every bit of that delectable sauce.
Conclusion
Ikan Kembung Rica-Rica is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Its aromatic spices and fresh ingredients create a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the warmth of home cooking with every bite!
