Ikan Kembung Tahu with Spicy Sweet Sauce
A delightful Indonesian dish, Ikan Kembung Tahu sambal pedas manis combines the savory flavors of small mackerel fish (ikan kembung) and tofu (tahu) with a deliciously spicy and sweet sauce. This recipe not only showcases the rich and vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine but also emphasizes the simplicity of preparation, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Small mackerel fish (ikan kembung) | 1/2 kg (approximately 6 pieces) |
| Firm tofu (tahu) | 6 pieces |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Seasoning (optional) | To taste |
| Ground Spice Paste | |
| Garlic cloves | 2 pieces |
| Shallots | 5 pieces |
| Red chili peppers (cabe rawit) | 15 pieces |
Preparation Steps
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Preparation of Fish and Tofu:
Begin by thoroughly washing the small mackerel fish and firm tofu under cold running water to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, soak the fish and tofu in a mixture of salted water for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate. Afterward, heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the fish and tofu until they are golden brown and crispy, ensuring to fry them alternately for even cooking. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. -
-
Making the Spice Paste:
While the fish and tofu are cooking, prepare the ground spice paste. In a mortar and pestle, or using a food processor, combine the garlic cloves, shallots, and red chili peppers. Grind them into a smooth paste, ensuring all the ingredients are well blended and aromatic. -
Cooking the Sauce:
In the same pan used for frying, add a bit more oil if necessary and then introduce the ground spice paste. Sauté the mixture over medium heat until it becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Season the paste with salt, sugar, and optional seasoning according to your taste, stirring well to ensure the flavors meld together. Continue to cook the sauce until it reaches a rich, enticing aroma. -
Combining Ingredients:
Once the spice paste is well cooked, gently add the fried mackerel fish and tofu into the pan. Carefully stir the ingredients to coat them evenly with the spicy sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes so that the fish and tofu absorb the flavors of the sauce. -
Serving:
Once well mixed and heated through, remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the Ikan Kembung Tahu sambal pedas manis onto a serving platter. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 280 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Conclusion
Enjoy this Ikan Kembung Tahu sambal pedas manis as a wonderful centerpiece for your dining table, offering a burst of flavors and a delightful balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking! 🌶️✨
