Oven-Baked Gurami Fish
Indulge in the delectable flavors of Oven-Baked Gurami Fish, a dish that beautifully highlights the delicate taste of fresh gurami fish. This recipe is not only simple to follow but also elevates your culinary experience with its aromatic spices and zesty marinade, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 600 grams fresh gurami fish
- 2 limes, juiced (for marinating)
For the Spice Paste:
- 4 cloves garlic
- 5 shallots
- 5 bird’s eye chilies
- 5 red chilies
- To taste: sugar
- To taste: salt
- 2 pieces ginger (about 2 inches)
- 2 pieces turmeric (about 2 inches)
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 4 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 bay leaves
Additional Ingredients:
- Sweet soy sauce, to taste
- 3 tablespoons margarine, melted
- Cooking oil for sautéing
Preparation Steps
-
Marinate the Fish:
Begin by rinsing the fresh gurami fish under cold water, then rub the fish with lime juice to eliminate any fishy odor. Once thoroughly coated, place the fish in the refrigerator to marinate while you prepare the spice paste. -
Prepare the Spice Paste:
In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, shallots, bird’s eye chilies, red chilies, ginger, turmeric, and coriander seeds. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. -
Sauté the Spices:
In a frying pan, heat a little cooking oil over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant. Incorporate the bay leaves and kaffir lime leaves, allowing them to infuse their aroma into the mixture. After a few minutes, stir in the sweet soy sauce and melted margarine, mixing until everything is well combined. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take the marinated gurami fish out of the refrigerator and rinse it once more under cold water. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (about 350 degrees Fahrenheit). Grease a baking tray with margarine, then place the fish on the tray. -
Apply the Spice Mixture:
Generously coat the fish with the sautéed spice mixture, ensuring it’s evenly covered for maximum flavor. -
Bake the Fish:
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the fish, adjusting the cooking time as necessary based on your oven’s performance, until the fish is thoroughly cooked and flaky. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for a few moments. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lime wedges, alongside steamed rice or a refreshing salad. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!
Tips for Perfecting Your Oven-Baked Gurami
- Choose Fresh Fish: For the best results, always opt for the freshest fish you can find, as it greatly enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to modify the level of spiciness according to your preference. You can add more chilies for extra heat or balance it with a bit more sugar for sweetness.
- Experiment with Marinades: If you enjoy experimenting, try adding other ingredients to the marinade, such as ginger paste or lemongrass, to further enhance the flavor profile.
This Oven-Baked Gurami Fish recipe is a delightful way to experience the rich culinary traditions that celebrate seafood. With its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation, it is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!