Ikan Dori Sambal Matah is a simple yet explosive fusion dish. It pairs crispy, tender Dory fish (a popular, mild white fish) with the famous Sambal Matah, Bali’s raw chili relish. The contrast between the neutral, crunchy fish and the vibrant, refreshing, and spicy lime-infused sambal is what made this dish an immediate hit.

Why This Could Go Viral

1. Crispy Meets Fresh: The combination of hot, crispy fried fish and cold, raw aromatic relish is addictive.
2. Sambal Star Power: Sambal Matah is a highly Instagrammable and easily recognizable Indonesian spice blend, ensuring immediate appeal.
3. Light and Quick: It’s much lighter than heavy curries, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Recipe: Dory Fish with Sambal Matah

Ingredients:

A. Crispy Dory:

• 300g Dory fillet, cut into strips
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper (for seasoning the fish and flour)
• Oil for deep-frying

B. Sambal Matah (Raw Chili Relish):

• 10 shallots, very thinly sliced
• 8 red bird’s eye chilies (cabai rawit), very thinly sliced
• 3 stalks lemongrass, take the white inner part only, thinly sliced
• 4 kaffir lime leaves, discard the middle spine, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp shrimp paste (terasi), toasted or fried briefly
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 lime, juiced
• 5 tbsp very hot cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish: Season the Dory strips with salt and pepper. Dip them first in the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned flour.
2. Fry: Deep-fry the coated Dory strips in hot oil until golden brown and very crispy. Drain well and set aside.
3. Mix the Sambal: Combine the sliced shallots, chilies, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, toasted shrimp paste, and salt in a bowl.
4. Infuse and Finish: Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the mixture. Immediately pour the 5 tablespoons of very hot oil over the sambal ingredients. Mix gently but thoroughly. The heat will lightly wilt the raw herbs, releasing their intense aroma.
5. Serve: Place the crispy Dory fish on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of Sambal Matah over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Serve immediately with warm rice.