Teflon-Grilled Bandeng: A Delightful Indonesian Dish
Ingredients:
- 1 medium bandeng (milkfish), filleted
- Juice of 1 lime
- Margarine, for greasing the pan
For the Spice Blend:
- 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fish: Start by thoroughly cleaning the bandeng. Remove all bones and rinse the fillets under cold water. Squeeze the juice of a lime over the fish and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This process helps to remove any fishy odor and adds a touch of tanginess.
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Make the Spice Paste: While the fish is marinating, prepare the spice blend. Using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the turmeric, ginger, and garlic into a smooth paste. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
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Marinate the Fish: After rinsing the fish, pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the prepared spice paste evenly over the fillets, making sure to cover both sides. Place the seasoned fish in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 1 hour; for best results, marinate for up to 3 hours to enhance the flavors.
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Grill the Fish: Heat a non-stick teflon pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with margarine. Once the pan is hot, place the marinated fish fillets on it. Cook for approximately 5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked to your desired level of doneness. The skin should become crispy, while the flesh remains tender and flavorful.
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Serve: Transfer the grilled fish to a serving platter and serve warm. It pairs wonderfully with a side of sambal (spicy chili paste) for an extra kick. Enjoy this dish with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.
Tips:
- For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk to the spice paste.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
This Teflon-Grilled Bandeng recipe is not only simple but also captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful combination of aromatic spices and perfectly grilled fish!
