Indonesian fish recipes

Zesty Grilled Tuna with Lemon Chili Sauce (Cakalang Bakar Sambal Lemon)

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Cakalang Bakar Sambal Lemon: A Flavorful Grilled Tuna Dish 🍋

Cakalang Bakar Sambal Lemon is a vibrant and delicious Indonesian dish featuring grilled skipjack tuna (cakalang) coated in a spicy and tangy lemon sambal. Perfect for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe brings a delightful taste of the sea to your table, complemented by the freshness of herbs and spices. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this culinary delight.


Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Cakalang fish or any preferred fish 1 whole (cleaned)
Sambal
Red bird’s eye chilies 1 handful (approximately 20-25)
Curly red chilies 6 pieces
Salt to taste
Granulated sugar to taste
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) to taste
Lemon or lime 1 whole
Vegetable oil 3 tablespoons

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories Approx. 280
Protein Approx. 25g
Total Fat Approx. 15g
Saturated Fat Approx. 2g
Carbohydrates Approx. 5g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Sugars 1g
Sodium Approx. 500mg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish
    Begin by thoroughly cleaning the cakalang (skipjack tuna) or your chosen fish, ensuring all scales and innards are removed. Using a sharp knife, make diagonal slashes across the body of the fish. This technique not only allows for better seasoning absorption but also adds an appealing aesthetic when served. Once prepared, rub the fish with freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice and a generous pinch of salt. Allow it to marinate for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.

  2. Make the Sambal
    In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine the red bird’s eye chilies and curly red chilies. Add a pinch of salt, granulated sugar, and monosodium glutamate (if using). Grind or blend these ingredients until they reach a fine, smooth consistency. In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully pour the hot oil over the sambal mixture, which will release a delightful aroma. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon or lime and stir to combine. Taste the sambal and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, sugar, or lime juice as needed.

  3. Grill the Fish
    Prepare your grill, making sure it reaches a high temperature. Place the marinated fish on the grill, cooking it over direct heat. Grill the fish for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on its thickness, until it is cooked through and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. The exterior should be beautifully charred and crispy, contributing to the overall flavor of the dish.

  4. Serve
    Once the fish is done grilling, transfer it to a serving plate. Generously spoon the lemon sambal over the top of the fish, ensuring every bite is infused with that zesty, spicy goodness. Serve your Cakalang Bakar Sambal Lemon hot, paired with fluffy white rice and fresh salad vegetables (lalapan) for a complete meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and share this delightful dish with family and friends!


Conclusion

Cakalang Bakar Sambal Lemon is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the sunny shores of Indonesia. The combination of smoky grilled fish and zesty sambal creates an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. This recipe is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results! Selamat mencoba! (Happy cooking!)

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