Ikan Sarden Balado Pete: A Spicy Sardine Delight
Ingredients
- 500 grams fresh sardines
- 1-2 boards of Pete (stink beans)
- 2 shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 red chilies
- 2 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit)
- 1 ripe tomato
- Sugar, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Flavor enhancer (optional)
Preparation Steps
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Clean the Sardines: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the fresh sardines. Make sure to remove any impurities and the gills to ensure a clean taste.
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Fry the Sardines: Heat oil in a pan until it’s hot, then carefully fry the sardines until they are golden brown and cooked through. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives the fish a delightful texture.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and ripe tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste that will infuse the dish with robust flavors.
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Prepare the Pete: While blending the spices, peel the Pete and set it aside. This unique ingredient adds an aromatic touch and a distinctive taste that complements the sardines beautifully.
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Sauté the Spice Mixture: In the same pan used for frying the fish, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the blended spice paste over medium heat until it becomes fragrant and aromatic.
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Incorporate the Pete: Once the spices are nicely cooked, add the Pete to the pan. Stir gently to combine, allowing the Pete to soak up the spicy goodness.
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Combine with Sardines: Finally, add the fried sardines to the pan. Gently fold the sardines into the spice mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Adjust seasoning with sugar, salt, and flavor enhancer to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Serve this delectable Ikan Sarden Balado Pete with steamed rice for a truly delightful meal that balances spice and flavor perfectly.
Tips for a Perfect Dish
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Freshness Matters: Using fresh sardines will significantly enhance the taste of this dish. Look for sardines that are firm and have a clean smell.
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Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference. You can also add more tomatoes for a milder flavor.
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Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice and a side of fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome meal perfect for sharing with family.
Indulge in this flavorful dish that brings together the rich taste of sardines and the unique aroma of Pete, creating a wonderful culinary experience. Enjoy your cooking journey with Love with Recipes!