Sambal Lele: A Delightful Indonesian Catfish Dish
Sambal Lele is a beloved Indonesian dish that showcases the tender and flavorful catfish, marinated and fried to perfection, and served with a spicy sambal sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, costing approximately 20,000 IDR. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients brings a vibrant taste to the table, making it a favorite among many. Here’s how to create this delectable dish.
Ingredients
| Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Catfish (Ikan Lele) | Catfish (cleaned and cut for marination) | 500 grams |
| Marinade | Turmeric powder (kunir bubuk) | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander powder (ketumbar bubuk) | 1 tablespoon | |
| Salt (garam) | ½ tablespoon | |
| Masako seasoning | ½ tablespoon | |
| Water | As needed | |
| Sambal Ingredients | Shallots (bawang merah) | 4 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves | |
| Red chili peppers (cabe merah) | 3 pieces | |
| Bird’s eye chili (cabe rawit) | 5 pieces (to taste) | |
| Shrimp paste (terasi) | A pinch | |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Sugar | To taste | |
| Masako seasoning | To taste | |
| Small tomatoes | 2 pieces | |
| Vegetable Sides | Water spinach (kangkung) | As desired |
| Bean sprouts (kecambah) | As desired | |
| Cooking Oil | Oil for frying | As needed |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Catfish:
Begin by cleaning the catfish thoroughly, making sure to remove any remaining scales or impurities. Make shallow cuts on both sides of the fish to allow the marinade to penetrate, enhancing the flavor. -
-
Create the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and Masako seasoning. Gradually add water to create a marinade that is well-blended. Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring it suits your preference. -
Marinate the Catfish:
Place the cleaned catfish into the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow the fish to marinate for about 5 minutes, giving the spices enough time to infuse their flavors into the fish. -
Fry the Catfish:
In a deep frying pan, heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently add the marinated catfish, frying until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure that the fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Fry in batches if necessary, so as not to overcrowd the pan. -
Prepare the Sambal:
While the fish is frying, it’s time to prepare the sambal. In a separate frying pan, heat a small amount of oil and sauté the shallots, garlic, red chili peppers, and bird’s eye chili until fragrant and slightly softened. This step enhances the flavors of the sambal. -
Blend the Sambal:
Once sautéed, transfer the mixture to a mortar and pestle or a blender. Add the shrimp paste, salt, sugar, and Masako seasoning, adjusting to taste. Blend until you achieve a coarse paste. If you prefer a smoother sambal, blend it longer. -
Prepare the Vegetable Sides:
In a pot of boiling water, add the water spinach and bean sprouts. Cook for a few minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside. -
Serve:
On a serving platter, arrange the fried catfish and spoon the sambal generously over the top. Serve alongside the boiled vegetables for a complete meal. -
Enjoy Your Meal:
Sambal Lele is best enjoyed fresh, allowing the flavors to shine. Pair it with steamed rice for a delightful experience that transports you to the vibrant culinary landscape of Indonesia.
Tips for Success
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder sambal, reduce the number of bird’s eye chilies or omit them entirely. Conversely, if you enjoy heat, feel free to add more to your liking.
- Serving Suggestions: Sambal Lele pairs wonderfully with white rice and a side of cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
With this recipe, you can create an authentic and flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the joy of cooking with love! Happy cooking!
