Ikan Nila Rica-Rica: A Spicy Indonesian Delight
If you’re looking to explore the rich and vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine, look no further than Ikan Nila Rica-Rica, a tantalizing dish featuring Nile tilapia infused with a medley of spices. This dish, known for its bold flavors and aromatic components, is perfect for those who love a spicy kick in their meals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a personal culinary adventure, Ikan Nila Rica-Rica is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful dish to life:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nile tilapia (Ikan Nila) | 1/2 kg |
| Red chili peppers (Cabe merah) | 100 g (1 ons) |
| Shallots (Bawang merah) | 5 cloves |
| Garlic (Bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili (Cabe rawit) | 20 pieces (or more for added heat) |
| Ginger (Jahe) | 2 cm |
| Spring onions (Daun bawang) | 4 stalks |
| Salt | To taste |
| Basil leaves (Daun kemangi) | Optional |
| Kaffir lime leaves (Daun jeruk) | 3 leaves |
| Lime juice or vinegar (for marinating) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Preparation Steps
Creating this delectable Ikan Nila Rica-Rica involves a few key steps that are simple yet rewarding. Follow these instructions for a dish that is bursting with flavor:
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the Nile tilapia thoroughly. Once cleaned, marinate the fish with a squeeze of lime juice or vinegar and sprinkle generously with salt. Allow the fish to marinate for about 30 minutes to enhance its flavor.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In the meantime, prepare the spice mixture. Coarsely grind together the red chili peppers, bird’s eye chilies, ginger, shallots, and garlic until you have a rough paste. This aromatic blend will form the heart of your dish.
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Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the marinated Nile tilapia until golden and crispy. Ensure the fish is cooked through and the skin is crunchy, which adds to the texture of the dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a separate pan, sauté the chopped spring onions until they become fragrant and slightly tender. This step is crucial as it lays the aromatic foundation for the spice mixture.
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Cook the Spice Paste: Add the ground spice mixture to the sautéed spring onions and stir well, cooking until the spices are aromatic and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine and Serve: Gently mix the fried tilapia into the cooked spice paste, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with the vibrant flavors. For an added touch of freshness, you may include basil leaves and kaffir lime leaves at this stage.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the Ikan Nila Rica-Rica hot, garnished with additional spring onions or fresh basil if desired. Pair it with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure
As you savor every bite of this delightful Ikan Nila Rica-Rica, you’ll experience the wonderful blend of spices and the perfect texture of the crispy fish. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a wonderful introduction to Indonesian flavors, making it a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons. Happy cooking and selamat menikmati! 🍲🍲
