Indonesian fish recipes

Spicy Sweet Sardines: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Published
Oct 7, 2024
Reading time
2 min
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Delight in the rich flavors of Ikan Sarden Pedas Manis, a delectable dish that combines tender sardines with a spicy and sweet sauce, perfect for serving over rice or alongside fresh vegetables. This dish embodies the essence of traditional Indonesian cuisine, where simplicity meets bold flavors.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Sardines 500 grams
Garlic 3 cloves
Shallots 2 medium
Bird’s eye chili 5-6 pieces
Large chili 1-2 pieces
Salt to taste
Flavor enhancer 1 teaspoon
Sugar 1 tablespoon
Water 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 250 kcal
Protein 20 grams
Fat 15 grams
Carbohydrates 12 grams
Fiber 3 grams

Instructions

  1. Fry the Sardines: Begin by frying the sardines in a pan over medium heat, ensuring they are cooked through but not overly dry. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown color while maintaining their tenderness.

  2. Prepare the Aromatics: While the sardines are frying, thinly slice the garlic, shallots, and both types of chilies. Once the sardines are done, set them aside on a plate.

  3. Sauté the Spices: In the same pan, add a splash of oil if necessary and toss in the sliced garlic, shallots, and chilies. Sauté the mixture until fragrant, allowing the aromatic flavors to infuse the oil.

  4. Combine and Simmer: Add 1 cup of water to the pan with the sautéed spices, followed by the fried sardines. Stir gently to ensure the sardines are coated in the mixture. Season with salt, flavor enhancer, and sugar, adjusting to taste. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

  5. Serve: After the sauce thickens slightly and the sardines have absorbed the sweet and spicy flavors, remove the pan from heat. Transfer the sardines to a serving dish, and they are now ready to be enjoyed with steamed rice or your choice of side dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Ikan Sarden Pedas Manis pairs beautifully with a side of steamed jasmine rice or a fresh salad. This dish not only brings warmth to your dining table but also adds a vibrant touch to your meals. Enjoy the balance of spice and sweetness that makes this recipe a beloved choice in Indonesian households!