Ikan Kembung Sambal Balado: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Ikan Kembung Sambal Balado, a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully balances the rich taste of fresh mackerel with a spicy sambal. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Indonesia. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a home-cooked meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of this culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients
For the Fish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Mackerel (Ikan Kembung) | 1/2 Kg |
For the Spice Paste:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red Chilies | 3 pieces |
| Shallots | 2 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Galangal (Lengkuas) | 2 cm |
| Coriander Seeds | 5 pieces |
For the Sautéing:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Onion | 1 piece |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
Additional Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooking Oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor Enhancer | To taste |
| Sweet Soy Sauce | As needed |
| White Sugar | To taste |
| Bay Leaves | 3 leaves |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Paste
Begin by preparing the spice paste, a crucial element that infuses the dish with depth and flavor. Take the red chilies, shallots, garlic, galangal, and coriander seeds, and combine them in a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Grind these ingredients into a smooth paste, ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Slice the Vegetables
Next, take your shallots, garlic, onion, and tomato, and slice them into thin pieces. These will be sautéed to add aromatic depth to your sambal.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
In a pan, heat enough cooking oil over medium heat for frying. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cleaned mackerel, frying them until they are golden and crispy. This will enhance their flavor and provide a delightful texture. Once fried, remove the fish from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Sauté the Spice Paste
With the oil still in the pan, add the sliced shallots, garlic, and onion. Sauté them for a few minutes until they turn fragrant and slightly translucent. Next, add the spice paste you prepared earlier, stirring it into the sautéed vegetables. Allow the mixture to cook for a few minutes until the spices become aromatic and the oil begins to separate from the paste.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
To this aromatic blend, pour in a bit of water, adjusting the amount according to the desired consistency. Season the mixture with salt, flavor enhancer, a touch of white sugar, sweet soy sauce, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to simmer gently, letting the flavors combine beautifully.
Step 6: Combine the Fish and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, gently place the fried mackerel into the pan. Carefully coat the fish with the sambal sauce, ensuring each piece is well-covered. Allow the fish to cook in the sauce for a few minutes, letting the flavors penetrate the fish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
After a few minutes, when the sauce has thickened slightly and the fish is infused with flavor, remove the pan from the heat. Your Ikan Kembung Sambal Balado is now ready to be served! Plate the dish, garnishing with additional bay leaves if desired, and enjoy this delightful Indonesian feast.
With its perfect blend of spices and fresh fish, Ikan Kembung Sambal Balado is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it alongside steamed rice and a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy the delightful experience of creating this delicious dish, and share it with family and friends for a truly memorable dining experience!
