Ikan Masak Lemak Cili Padi
Brunei Style
A rich and spicy fish curry cooked in coconut milk with a potent chili paste, this dish is a flavorful representation of Bruneian coastal cuisine. The 'lemak' refers to the richness from the coconut milk, while 'cili padi' signifies the small, fiery bird's eye chilies that give it a significant kick.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Firm white fish fillets(such as mackerel, snapper, or sea bass, cut into chunks)
- 400 ml Coconut milk
- 100 ml Water
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil
- 10 pcs Bird's eye chilies (cili padi)(or to taste, adjust for desired heat)
- 5 medium Shallots
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves
- 1 inch piece Galangal(peeled)
- 2 stalks Lemongrass stalks(bruised)
- 3 leaves Kaffir lime leaves(torn)
- 1 tsp Sugar(optional, to balance flavors)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chili paste: In a food processor or blender, combine the bird's eye chilies, shallots, garlic, and galangal. Blend until a smooth paste forms. Add a tablespoon of water if needed to help with blending.
- 2
Sauté the paste: Heat the cooking oil in a pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chili paste and sauté for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.
- 3
Add aromatics and liquids: Stir in the turmeric powder, bruised lemongrass stalks, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 4
Cook the fish: Gently add the fish chunks to the simmering curry. Season with salt and sugar (if using). Do not stir too vigorously to prevent the fish from breaking apart.
- 5
Simmer and finish: Let the curry simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Remove the lemongrass stalks before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a milder curry, reduce the number of bird's eye chilies or remove the seeds.
- ✓Ensure the fish is fresh for the best flavor.
- ✓Serve hot with steamed white rice.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like okra, long beans, or pineapple chunks for added texture and flavor.
- For a richer curry, use only coconut milk and omit the water.