Steamed Mackerel with Lime
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia with this delightful steamed mackerel dish, known locally as ikan kembung stim limau. This recipe beautifully combines fresh ingredients, providing a dish that is not only visually appealing but also incredibly aromatic and flavorful.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mackerel (ikan kembung), cleaned | 2 whole fish |
| Onion (bawang bombay) | 1 medium, sliced |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves, minced |
| Red and green bird’s eye chili (cabe) | 15 pieces, sliced |
| Ginger (jahe) | ½ thumb, finely sliced or julienned |
| Oyster sauce (saos tiram) | 1 tablespoon |
| Lime (jeruk limau) | 2, juiced |
| Water | Sufficient amount to dilute the oyster sauce |
| Seasoning powder (masako) | 1 packet |
| Thai basil (kemangi), for garnish | To taste, optional |
Instructions
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Prepare the Steamer: Begin by heating your steamer over medium heat to ensure that it is hot and ready for the fish.
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Season the Fish: After cleaning the mackerel thoroughly, rub them generously with the seasoning powder (masako) and set them aside. This step infuses the fish with flavor, enhancing its natural taste.
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Mix the Aromatics: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped chili, and ginger. Stir in the lime juice, oyster sauce, and enough water to create a light marinade. Ensure everything is mixed well to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Coat the Fish: Take the prepared mackerel and place them in a shallow dish or a steaming tray. Pour the marinade mixture over the fish, ensuring they are well-coated with the aromatic blend.
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Steam the Fish: Carefully place the dish with the marinated mackerel into the steamer. Cover and steam the fish for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the fish, so keep an eye on them.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the mackerel from the steamer. Optionally, sprinkle fresh Thai basil on top as a garnish for added flavor and color.
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Enjoy Your Dish: Serve the steamed mackerel immediately, perhaps with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables, to enjoy a wholesome meal.
This dish is not only a delicious way to savor the flavors of the ocean but also a healthy option that highlights the beauty of steaming as a cooking method. Enjoy your culinary adventure with ikan kembung stim limau! 🍽️
