Nila Bakar Pedas Manis: A Delightful Spicy-Sweet Grilled Tilapia Recipe
Nila Bakar Pedas Manis, or Spicy-Sweet Grilled Tilapia, is a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully balances the sweetness of palm sugar with the zest of spices, making it a must-try for seafood lovers. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating a mouthwatering grilled fish dish that is perfect for any gathering. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh tilapia fish (ikan nila) | 1/2 kg (approximately 1 lb) |
| Palm sugar (gula merah) | 2 pieces |
| Coriander seeds (ketumbar) | 2 teaspoons |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 3 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 5 cloves |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 3 shallots |
| Red chilies (cabai merah) | 3 pieces |
| Salt (garam) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 1 sachet |
| Flavor enhancer (penyedap rasa) | 1 tablespoon |
| Lime juice (perasan air jeruk) | To taste |
| Water | 100 ml |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish:
Begin by cleaning the tilapia thoroughly under running water. To eliminate any fishy odors, rub the fish with lime juice, ensuring it is well coated. This step not only adds flavor but also enhances freshness. -
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Make the Spice Paste:
In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine the garlic, shallots, red chilies, coriander seeds, salt, candlenuts, and flavor enhancer. Grind these ingredients into a smooth paste. This fragrant spice blend is the heart of your dish, imparting depth and character. -
Cook the Marinade:
In a medium pot, bring 100 ml of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the ground spice paste, sweet soy sauce, and palm sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and integrate the flavors. Allow this mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a rich marinade. -
Marinate the Fish:
Gently place the tilapia into the pot with the marinade, ensuring it is well coated on all sides. Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. For the best results, marinating it for a few hours in the refrigerator is recommended. -
Grill the Fish:
Prepare your grilling equipment. Preheat the grill or barbecue. Once heated, arrange the marinated tilapia on the grill, ensuring it is spaced adequately to allow even cooking. Grill the fish for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it is cooked through and has a nice charred appearance. -
Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the tilapia from the grill and serve it hot. Accompany with a selection of fresh vegetables (lalapan) and your favorite sambal for an extra kick.
Enjoying Nila Bakar Pedas Manis
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a fresh salad, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests, capturing the essence of Indonesian cuisine right at your dining table.
By following these steps, you will create a dish that not only looks appealing but also tastes divine, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia. Enjoy your cooking adventure with Nila Bakar Pedas Manis!
