Sweet and Spicy Dried Mackerel (Ikan Asin Tenggiri)
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Sweet and Spicy Dried Mackerel, a classic dish that marries the savory richness of dried fish with a tantalizing blend of spices and seasonings. This recipe is perfect for serving alongside steaming white rice, creating a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried Mackerel (Ikan Asin Tenggiri) | 500 grams |
| Red Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 150 grams |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 5 cloves |
| Large Red Chilies (Cabe Merah) | To taste |
| Bird’s Eye Chilies (Cabe Rawit) | To taste |
| Tamarind Water (Air Asam Jawa) | As needed |
| Palm Sugar (Gula Merah) | To taste |
| Granulated Sugar (Gula Pasir) | To taste |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cutting the dried mackerel into pieces roughly the size of your finger. Soak the fish in water for about 20 minutes to rehydrate, then rinse thoroughly. Heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Chop the Aromatics: While the fish is frying, slice the red shallots, garlic, and both types of chilies. For the tamarind water, mix the tamarind with water, squeeze, and strain to extract the liquid.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and soft.
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Add the Sauces: Pour in the strained tamarind water along with the palm sugar and granulated sugar. Stir well to combine, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
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Combine with Fish: Gently add the fried mackerel pieces into the skillet, followed by the sliced chilies. Pour enough water into the pan to cover the fish evenly. Allow the dish to simmer until the water reduces, stirring occasionally to ensure even coating of the fish.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the dish is lacking in saltiness, add a pinch of salt to suit your preference.
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Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and flavors have melded beautifully, remove from heat. Transfer the Sweet and Spicy Dried Mackerel to a serving plate. This dish pairs wonderfully with hot white rice, making it a perfect addition to your meal.
Enjoy this vibrant dish that encapsulates the essence of traditional flavors, offering a delightful experience for both the palate and the soul.
