Are you looking to spice up your seafood recipes? Look no further than ikan kembung masak sambal from Azie Kitchen! This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of fresh mackerel fish with a spicy sambal sauce that will surely satisfy your taste buds. In this blog article, we will guide you through the process of making this delectable dish, providing you with a detailed and comprehensive recipe. So, let's dive in and discover how to create this tantalizing ikan kembung masak sambal!
Before we jump into the recipe, let's talk about the ingredients you will need. The main star of this dish is the ikan kembung, also known as Indian mackerel. You can find this fish at your local seafood market or grocery store. Additionally, you will need a variety of spices and condiments such as shallots, garlic, red chili peppers, tamarind paste, and belacan (shrimp paste). These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 ikan kembung (Indian mackerel) fish
- 5 shallots
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 5 red chili peppers
- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
- 1 teaspoon belacan (shrimp paste)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
Cleaning and Preparing the Fish
Preparing the Spice Paste
Frying the Fish
Sautéing the Spice Paste
Adding the Flavorful Ingredients
Creating the Sambal Sauce
Coating the Fish and Simmering
Serving and Enjoying!
Start by cleaning the ikan kembung thoroughly. Rinse the fish under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat it dry with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, make small slits on both sides of the fish. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the flesh during cooking.
To create the flavorful spice paste, you will need shallots, garlic, and red chili peppers. Peel the shallots and garlic cloves, then roughly chop them. Remove the stems and seeds from the red chili peppers. If you prefer a milder spice level, you can reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds entirely. Blend the shallots, garlic, and red chili peppers in a food processor or blender until you achieve a smooth paste.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fish into the pan. Fry the fish on each side until it turns golden brown and crispy. This step will give the fish a delightful crunch and enhance its flavor. Once fried, remove the fish from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary and sauté the spice paste. Cook the paste over medium heat until it becomes fragrant and the raw smell disappears. The aroma of the shallots, garlic, and chili peppers will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation of the final dish.
Once the spice paste is fragrant, it's time to add the remaining ingredients that will bring depth and complexity to the dish. Start by adding tamarind paste, which will lend a tangy and slightly sour taste. Follow it up with belacan, a traditional shrimp paste that adds a unique umami flavor to the dish. Finally, sprinkle in the sugar and add salt to taste. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly combined.
If the mixture appears dry, you can add a little water to create a thick sauce consistency. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon and have a smooth texture. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the sauce is ready, carefully place the fried fish back into the pan. Coat the fish with the sambal sauce, ensuring that every nook and cranny is covered. This will infuse the fish with the spicy and savory flavors of the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the fish simmer in the sauce for 5-10 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
After the fish has simmered to perfection, remove it from the heat. Serve the ikan kembung masak sambal hot with steamed rice. The combination of the tender, flaky fish and the spicy, aromatic sambal sauce will create a truly memorable dining experience. Garnish with fresh herbs or sliced red chili peppers for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Now that you have the recipe and instructions, let's talk about the nutritional value of this delicious dish. Ikan kembung masak sambal is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Indian mackerel is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Additionally, this dish is rich in protein and vitamins.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
In conclusion, ikan kembung masak sambal from Azie Kitchen is a must-try recipe for seafood lovers. Its unique combination of flavors and spices will leave you craving for more. By following the detailed instructions provided, you can easily recreate this dish at home and impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your nearest seafood market, grab some fresh ikan kembung, and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering delight!