Home cooking, Salted fish Sambalado

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salted Fish

• Soak the salted fish (ikan asin) in warm water for about 10-15 minutes if it is too salty. This will help reduce some of the saltiness, making it more balanced for the dish.
• After soaking, pat the fish dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
• Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the salted fish for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the fish is crispy and golden brown.
• Once fried, remove the fish from the pan and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Set aside.

2. Make the Sambal

• In a blender or food processor, combine the red bird’s eye chilies, red chilies, garlic, shallots, and shrimp paste (if using). Add a little bit of water or oil to help the blending process.
• Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. The texture of sambal can vary depending on your preference, so you can make it a bit chunky or completely smooth.
• In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chili paste mixture and sauté for 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning and to allow the flavors to cook through.
• Add the chopped tomatoes, tamarind paste (if using), and sugar to the sambal. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and create a rich, tangy base.
• Season the sambal with soy sauce, lime juice (optional), and salt to taste. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess according to your preference by adding more sugar or lime juice if necessary.
• Once the sambal is fragrant and the tomatoes have softened into a thick sauce, remove the pan from the heat.

3. Combine the Salted Fish and Sambal

• Place the fried salted fish on a serving plate.
• Pour the sambal mixture over the top of the fish, making sure to coat each piece generously.
• If you prefer, you can also break the salted fish into smaller pieces and mix it directly with the sambal for a more integrated dish.

4. Garnish and Serve

• Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or scallions for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve the Salted Fish Sambalado with steamed white rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with fried tofu, tempeh, or a side of sautéed vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Salted Fish Sambalado

1. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder sambal, reduce the number of bird’s eye chilies. You can always taste the sambal as you go and add more chilies if you like it hotter.
2. Use Fresh Tamarind: If you can find fresh tamarind pulp, use it in place of tamarind paste for an even more authentic, tangy flavor.
3. Serve Immediately: Salted Fish Sambalado is best served fresh, with the sambal still vibrant and the fish crispy. If you let it sit too long, the fish may lose some of its crunch.
4. Control the Saltiness: Since salted fish can be quite salty, be cautious when adding extra salt to the sambal. Always taste the sambal first before adjusting the seasoning.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

Salted Fish Sambalado is a perfect example of the bold and rich flavors that define Indonesian cuisine. The combination of crispy, salty fish with the tangy, spicy sambal creates an unforgettable flavor explosion that’s sure to please any palate. The dish is simple, but the layers of spice, umami, and sourness make each bite complex and satisfying.

Whether you’re looking to try something new or you’re already a fan of Indonesian food, this dish will quickly become a favorite. It’s a great way to introduce more sambal-based recipes into your cooking repertoire, and it’s an excellent addition to any home-cooked meal.

With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can enjoy a dish that captures the essence of Indonesian home cooking. Salted Fish Sambalado is a great way to spice up your dinner table and add a bit of heat to your life.

Final Thoughts

Making Salted Fish Sambalado at home is a great way to experience a flavorful, traditional dish that’s beloved in Indonesian cuisine. It’s a dish that celebrates bold, spicy flavors and offers a satisfying meal with just a few ingredients. Serve it with steamed rice, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy a taste of Indonesia that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious, spicy, and savory goodness of Salted Fish Sambalado!