This delightful dish features the fresh and flavorful Ikan Kembung (Mackerel) prepared with a vibrant sambal balado infused with aromatic herbs. It’s a perfect blend of spicy and savory, making it an ideal accompaniment to rice. The addition of kemangi (Thai basil) and daun jeruk (kaffir lime leaves) elevates the dish, adding depth and fragrance that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan kembung (Mackerel) | 3 whole fish |
| Bawang merah (Shallots) | 12 cloves |
| Bawang putih (Garlic) | 6 cloves |
| Cabai merah keriting (Red chilies) | 15 pieces |
| Cabai rawit oren (Bird’s eye chilies) | 7 pieces |
| Tomat (Tomato) | 1 medium-sized |
| Gula pasir (Granulated sugar) | To taste |
| Garam (Salt) | To taste |
| Penyedap rasa (Flavor enhancer) | To taste (Masako preferred) |
| Air (Water) | As needed |
| Daun kemangi (Thai basil) | A handful |
| Daun jeruk (Kaffir lime leaves) | 2-3 leaves |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Instructions
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Preparation of Fish: Start by frying the Ikan Kembung in hot oil until they are cooked through and golden brown. Ensure they are crispy on the outside. Remove and set aside.
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Blend the Spices: In a blender, combine the red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic, and tomato. Blend until smooth to create a vibrant spice paste.
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Sauté the Spice Mixture: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.
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Add Aromatics: Once the sambal is fragrant, add the kemangi leaves and daun jeruk. Stir to incorporate, then season with salt, granulated sugar, and your preferred flavor enhancer (Masako works wonderfully). Pour in enough water to create a saucy consistency.
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Combine with Fish: When the sambal is cooked and aromatic, gently place the fried Ikan Kembung into the pan. Spoon the sambal over the fish and allow it to simmer for a few minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together and the sambal penetrates the fish.
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Serve: Once the sambal has sufficiently absorbed into the fish, remove from heat and serve warm. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice.
Enjoy the explosion of flavors with each bite of your Ikan Kembung Sambal Balado Kemangi, and relish the culinary journey it brings to your table!