Spicy Tauco Mackerel Stew with Fried Tofu and Chilies

Ingredients

• 6 mackerel (ikan gembung), cleaned and scored
• 8 shallots, thinly sliced
• 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 6 red curly chilies, sliced diagonally
• 6 green curly chilies, sliced diagonally
• 4 red bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 large tomato, cut into chunks
• 6 pieces fried tofu, halved
• 4 tablespoons tauco (fermented soybeans)
• 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil for frying

Marinade:

• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon coriander seeds, toasted and ground with garlic
• A thumb-sized piece of turmeric, roasted and ground
• 3-4 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish:

   • Combine lime juice, salt, minced garlic, ground coriander, and ground turmeric with water to create the marinade.
   • Rub the marinade thoroughly over the cleaned mackerel. Let it sit for 30 minutes.

2. Fry the Fish:

   • Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Fry the marinated mackerel until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a separate pan, heat some oil and sauté the sliced shallots and garlic until fragrant and translucent.

4. Add the Vegetables and Sauces:

   • Add the sliced red and green chilies to the pan. Stir well.
   • Incorporate the tauco and mix until evenly combined.

5. Combine Ingredients:

   • Gently add the fried mackerel, tofu, and tomato chunks into the pan.
   • Pour in approximately 300 mL of water, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.

6. Season the Dish:

   • Season with salt, pepper, granulated sugar, and sweet soy sauce to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Simmer:

   • Allow the stew to cook until the flavors meld together and the sauce has thickened slightly.

8. Serve:

   • Turn off the heat and serve the spicy tauco mackerel stew hot with steamed white rice.

Enjoy this delectable and spicy mackerel dish that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite!