Ikan Kembung Cabai Ijo (Mackerel in Spicy Green Chili Sauce)
This Ikan Kembung Cabai Ijo recipe presents a delightful Indonesian dish that infuses tender, crispy mackerel with the aromatic and zesty flavors of green chilies, garlic, shallots, and a touch of lime. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a harmonious balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mackerel fish (Ikan Kembung) | 4 whole fish |
| Lime (Jeruk Nipis) | 1 (for marinating the fish) |
| Lemon (Jeruk Limao) | 4 (freshly squeezed) |
| Green chili (Cabai Hijau Keriting) | 5-6 (adjust to taste, can include green bird’s eye chili for extra heat) |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 4-5 cloves (to enhance flavor) |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 4-5 cloves (to taste) |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| Royco seasoning powder | 1/2 packet |
| Sugar (Gula Pasir) | A pinch |
Instructions:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare the fish | Clean the mackerel by slicing open the belly, removing the innards, and giving it a thorough rinse. Soak the cleaned fish in lime juice for 5 minutes to tenderize and neutralize any fishy odors. After 5 minutes, rinse the fish again. |
| 2. Slice the ingredients | Thinly slice the shallots, garlic, and green chilies, setting them aside for the cooking process. |
| 3. Fry the fish | Heat oil in a frying pan, then fry the mackerel until golden and crispy on both sides. Once fried, drain the excess oil and set aside. |
| 4. Sauté the aromatics | In a separate pan, sauté the sliced shallots, garlic, and green chilies until fragrant. Add salt, Royco seasoning powder, and sugar to taste. Stir until everything is well combined and fragrant. |
| 5. Add the fish | Gently toss the fried mackerel into the sautéed spices, ensuring the fish is well-coated. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, and stir everything together to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. |
| 6. Serve and enjoy | Serve the mackerel hot, garnished with fresh herbs or additional lime wedges if desired. Enjoy with steamed rice or as a flavorful side dish. |
This dish is perfect for those looking for a fiery, flavorful mackerel dish with a unique twist from the green chili sauce. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, Ikan Kembung Cabai Ijo will surely impress your guests with its bold and vibrant flavors.
