Spicy Soy Sauce Fried Mackerel (Ikan Kembung Goreng Saus Kecap Pedas)
This vibrant dish of Spicy Soy Sauce Fried Mackerel, known as Ikan Kembung Goreng Saus Kecap Pedas, showcases the delightful flavors of Indonesia, combining the richness of fried mackerel with a zesty and aromatic sauce that elevates this meal to a new level of deliciousness. Serve it over a steaming bowl of white rice, and prepare for a culinary experience that is both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Fried Mackerel:
- 1 whole mackerel (ikan kembung), cleaned and prepared for frying
For the Spicy Soy Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large chili pepper, sliced
- 5 bird’s eye chilies, chopped finely (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- ½ tablespoon chicken or beef broth powder
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (kecap ikan)
- ⅓ tablespoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Water, as needed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mackerel
Start by frying the cleaned mackerel in hot oil until it is perfectly golden and crispy. Once cooked, carefully remove the fish from the pan and let it drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This ensures a delightful crunch while maintaining the juicy texture of the fish.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Sauce
In the same pan, using the remaining oil, sauté the minced garlic, sliced chili pepper, and chopped bird’s eye chilies over medium heat. Cook until the mixture becomes fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden. Be mindful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Once the garlic and chilies are fragrant, add a splash of water to the pan to create a base for your sauce. Next, incorporate the sweet soy sauce, white pepper, fish sauce, and broth powder into the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few moments to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate the Fried Mackerel
Now, introduce the fried mackerel back into the pan, gently tossing it in the spicy sauce so that each piece is generously coated. Allow it to cook for a few minutes, ensuring that the flavors of the sauce infuse into the fish.
Step 5: Serve
Once the sauce has sufficiently absorbed into the fish, turn off the heat. Transfer the mackerel onto a serving plate, and enjoy your delicious Spicy Soy Sauce Fried Mackerel while it’s hot, paired perfectly with a steaming bowl of white rice.
Enjoying Your Meal
This dish is not just about the fish; it’s about the whole experience of savoring the layers of flavor with every bite. The combination of the crispy fish and the spicy, savory sauce creates a delightful balance that is sure to please anyone at the table. Whether you’re serving this at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, Ikan Kembung Goreng Saus Kecap Pedas is a dish that embodies love and comfort through cooking.
Bon appétit!
