Sambal Ikan Kembung: A Spicy Delight

Sambal Ikan Kembung, a tantalizing dish hailing from the heart of Indonesian cuisine, showcases the rich flavors of the sea perfectly complemented by a spicy sambal sauce. This recipe is not only simple but also a delightful way to indulge in the zest of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

For the Fish

For the Spice Blend (Bumbu Halus)

For Additional Seasoning

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Start by cleaning the ikan kembung thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the fish. Allow it to marinate for approximately 10 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor of the fish but also helps in tenderizing it.

   Related Articles

   • 
     Crispy Milkfish in Coconut Sauce Delight
   • 
     Zesty Indonesian Mackerel Pesmol: A Flavorful Seafood Delight
   • 
     Spicy Indonesian Fried Carp in Sweet Aromatic Sauce (Pesmol Ikan Mas)
   • 
     Crispy Fried Catfish with Zesty Sambal: Authentic Pecel Lele Recipe

2. Fry the Fish: Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated ikan kembung. Fry the fish until golden brown and crispy on both sides, ensuring it is cooked through. Once done, remove the fish from the pan and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

3. Prepare the Spice Blend: In a blender or food processor, combine the large red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, candlenuts, tomatoes, shallots, garlic, and palm sugar. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. This vibrant mixture is the heart of your sambal, bringing both heat and flavor to the dish.

4. Cook the Spice Blend: In the same frying pan, drain any excess oil, leaving just enough to sauté the spice blend. Add the blended mixture to the pan over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook until the spices are fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste, indicating it is well-cooked.

5. Season the Sambal: Once the spice blend is cooked, add salt, sugar, and a flavor enhancer to taste. This is the time to adjust the seasoning according to your preference; a good sambal should balance heat with sweetness and savory notes.

6. Combine and Serve: Gently add the fried ikan kembung into the sambal mixture. Toss the fish in the sambal to coat it evenly, allowing it to absorb the wonderful flavors for a minute or two. Once everything is well combined, your Sambal Ikan Kembung is ready to be served.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful sambal with steamed rice, fresh vegetables, and a squeeze of lime to enhance the dish’s flavor. The combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet notes makes this dish a standout in any meal, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Enjoy your Sambal Ikan Kembung as a cherished dish that embodies the essence of Indonesian culinary tradition, with each bite bursting with flavor and warmth. This recipe not only highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients but also invites you to explore the rich tapestry of Indonesian flavors right in your kitchen.