Sweet and Spicy Mackerel Delight: A Flavorful Indonesian Classic

Sweet and Spicy Mackerel (Ikan Tengiri Pedas Manis)

Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this Indonesian-inspired Sweet and Spicy Mackerel dish, known as Ikan Tengiri Pedas Manis. This vibrant recipe features tender mackerel fillets enveloped in a luscious, flavorful sauce that balances heat and sweetness, making it an ideal centerpiece for any meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step preparation to create this delectable dish that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 4 mackerel fish (cleaned, can be cut or left whole)
• Cooking oil (for frying)
• 3 shallots (finely sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1/4 tablespoon pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tomato (chopped into small pieces)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 piece of galangal (smashed)
• Brown sugar (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• Seasoning powder (to taste; optional)
• 20 red chili peppers or bird’s eye chilies (finely chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water (or to taste)
• Additional brown sugar or palm sugar (to taste)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Mackerel:
   Begin by thoroughly cleaning the mackerel fish under cold running water. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then rub them with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

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2. Fry the Fish:
   In a deep frying pan, heat enough cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated mackerel to the pan. Fry the fish until they are golden brown and half-cooked. Once done, remove the fish from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

3. Prepare the Sauce:
   In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the sliced shallots and chopped garlic until they become aromatic and slightly translucent.

4. Add Vegetables and Spices:
   Once the shallots and garlic are half-cooked, add the chopped tomato and finely sliced chilies to the pan. Sauté the mixture until it breaks down and becomes fragrant.

5. Combine Ingredients:
   Pour water into the pan and stir well to combine with the sautéed mixture. Add in the soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar or palm sugar, salt, and optional seasoning powder. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.

6. Infuse with Aromatics:
   Introduce the smashed galangal and bay leaf to the mixture. Allow the sauce to simmer, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

7. Incorporate the Fish:
   Gently place the previously fried mackerel into the pan with the sauce. Stir carefully to coat the fish evenly with the sauce. Allow the fish to simmer in the sauce until the flavors fully permeate, which should take about 10 minutes.

8. Serve:
   Once the fish is thoroughly infused with the sauce, remove the pan from heat. Serve your Sweet and Spicy Mackerel hot, garnished with additional chilies or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy it with steamed rice for a truly satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Spicy Mackerel recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. The combination of spices and the balance of sweetness and heat will make this dish a beloved favorite at your dining table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the delightful taste of homemade Ikan Tengiri Pedas Manis. Enjoy your culinary adventure!