Ikan Nila Bakar Pedas Manis: A Flavorful Grilled Fish Recipe
Discover the delightful taste of Ikan Nila Bakar Pedas Manis, a traditional Indonesian dish that combines the rich flavors of grilled tilapia with a sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to your table. The careful blend of spices and aromatics creates an unforgettable dining experience, making it a beloved choice for family meals and special occasions. Below, you will find a detailed recipe that includes ingredients, preparation steps, and nutritional information, allowing you to savor the flavors of this culinary gem.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tilapia fish (Ikan Nila) | 2 whole fish (cleaned) |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 15 pieces |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 10 cloves |
| Candlenuts (Kemiri) | 4 pieces |
| Large Red Chilies (Cabai Merah) | 5 pieces |
| Bird’s Eye Chilies (Cabai Rawit) | 20 pieces (adjust to taste) |
| Galangal (Lengkuas) | 1 thumb-sized piece |
| Ginger (Jahe) | 1 thumb-sized piece |
| Palm Sugar (Gula Merah) | 2 pieces |
| Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap) | To taste |
| Seasoning (Penyedap) | To taste |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| Sugar (Gula) | To taste |
| Oil (Minyak) | For frying |
| Butter or Margarine (Margarin) | For grilling |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Start by thoroughly cleaning the tilapia fish. Remove any scales and innards, ensuring they are ready for cooking.
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Fry the Fish: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the cleaned tilapia until golden brown on both sides. This initial frying helps lock in the flavors and creates a beautiful texture.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In the same oil, fry the shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, candlenuts, large red chilies, and bird’s eye chilies until all the ingredients become soft and fragrant. The goal is to release the essential oils from the spices.
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Blend the Ingredients: After frying, transfer the sautéed ingredients into a blender. Blend until smooth, adding the palm sugar, sweet soy sauce, salt, sugar, and seasoning. Adjust the flavors to your preference, ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness.
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Taste the Sauce: Before proceeding, taste the blended sauce to check the seasoning. You can adjust by adding more sugar, salt, or soy sauce as needed.
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Coat the Fish: Once satisfied with the sauce, take the fried tilapia and generously coat it with the spicy-sweet mixture, ensuring every inch is covered.
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Grill the Fish: Preheat your grill or grill pan. Use a bit of butter or margarine to grease the surface, preventing the fish from sticking. Place the coated fish on the grill and cook until the exterior is slightly charred, which typically takes about 5-10 minutes on each side.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the fish is perfectly grilled, transfer it to a serving platter. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
This Ikan Nila Bakar Pedas Manis recipe is a celebration of flavors that showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy the harmonious blend of spices, sweetness, and the smokiness of grilled fish, making every bite a delightful experience. Perfect for your next family gathering or a cozy dinner, this dish will surely impress everyone at your table!
