Balado Ikan Sembilang: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Dive into the delicious world of Balado Ikan Sembilang, a mouthwatering Indonesian dish that beautifully showcases the rich flavors of the sea combined with a vibrant blend of spices. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a spicy kick in their meals, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 500 grams of Ikan Laut (we’re using Sembilang or Catfish)
• Cooking Oil for frying
• 250 ml Water
• 1 tablespoon Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis)

Spice Paste:

• To taste: Red Bird’s Eye Chilies (Cabe Merah Keriting)
• 1 tablespoon Candlenuts (Kemiri)
• 4 cloves Garlic (Bawang Putih)
• 6 shallots (Bawang Merah)
• 1 large Tomato (Tomat Besar)
• A pinch of Shrimp Paste (Trasi)
• To taste: Turmeric (Kunir)
• 2 stalks Lemongrass (Serai), bruised
• 1 leaf Bay Leaf (Daun Salam)
• 2 leaves Lime Leaf (Daun Jeruk)
• A small piece of Galangal (Lengkuas), bruised
• 1/2 teaspoon Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh Basil leaves for serving (Daun Kemangi)

Preparation Steps

1. Clean the Fish: Start by washing the fish thoroughly and marinating it with salt for about one minute. This will enhance the flavor and help in the cooking process.

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2. Fry the Fish: Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently fry the fish until it is halfway cooked. This step is crucial as it adds texture to the fish. After frying, set the fish aside to drain excess oil.

3. Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the red chilies, candlenuts, garlic, shallots, and tomato. Blend these ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste, which will form the flavorful base of your dish.

4. Sauté the Spices: In a clean pan, heat a little oil and add the blended spice paste. Next, toss in the bruised galangal, bay leaf, lime leaves, and lemongrass. Sauté until the spices become fragrant, releasing their aromatic qualities into the air.

5. Combine Fish and Spices: Once the spices are aromatic, gently add the previously fried fish into the pan. Stir carefully to ensure that the fish is evenly coated with the spice mixture.

6. Add Liquids: Pour in the water and add the sweet soy sauce. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to break the fish apart. This is key to maintaining the integrity of the dish.

7. Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Let the mixture simmer until the liquid reduces and thickens, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

8. Serve: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, your Balado Ikan Sembilang is ready to be served. For an added touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves if you enjoy their aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Balado Ikan Sembilang is best enjoyed with steamed rice, which complements the spiciness of the dish perfectly. The addition of fresh basil leaves as a side or garnish can elevate the dining experience, bringing freshness to every bite.

Enjoyment Tips

This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a festive gathering, Balado Ikan Sembilang is sure to impress. It’s a fantastic way to introduce your loved ones to the bold and exciting flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

Happy Cooking!

We hope you enjoy this delightful recipe and share it with family and friends. It’s a wonderful addition to any home-cooked meal that promises to bring everyone together around the table. Selamat mencoba! (Happy cooking!)