Sweet and Spicy Mackerel with Crispy Tofu

Spicy Sweet Mackerel and Tofu (Ikan Kembung Tahu Sambal Pedas Manis)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg small mackerel (ikan kembung) – about 6 pieces
• 6 pieces of yellow tofu (tahu kuning)
• Oil for frying
• Salt to taste
• Sugar to taste
• Seasoning (penyedap rasa) to taste

For the Spicy Paste:

• 2 cloves garlic
• 5 shallots
• 15 red bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit merah)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish and Tofu:

   • Rinse the mackerel and tofu thoroughly. Soak them in salted water for 5 minutes to enhance the flavor and remove any excess fishy taste.
   • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the mackerel and tofu separately until they are golden brown and crispy. Set them aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

2. Make the Spicy Paste:

   • While waiting for the fish and tofu to cook, prepare the spicy paste. Blend or grind the garlic, shallots, and red bird’s eye chilies into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spicy Paste:

   • In a clean pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the blended spicy paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

4. Season and Combine:

   • Season the paste with salt, sugar, and seasoning (penyedap rasa) to taste. Stir well and cook until the mixture is well-combined and the flavors have melded together.

5. Mix with Fish and Tofu:

   • Once the spicy paste is ready, add the fried mackerel and tofu to the pan. Gently toss and stir to coat the fish and tofu evenly with the spicy paste. Cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serve:

   • Your Spicy Sweet Mackerel and Tofu is now ready to be served. Enjoy it as a flavorful accompaniment with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.

Happy Cooking! 😊