Chilli Catfish

Catfish, or known as Ikan Keli in Malaysia, is farmed (freshwater) for commercial purposes and catching up popularity. In Miri, these cost RM15 per kg. Catfish common dishes amongst Malays are Chilli Catfish, Masak Lemak Chilli Padi and grilled + serve with Asam sauce.

The Chilli Catfish above is cooked similar way like any other fish - see here for recipe. I love it deep fried until crispy before adding into the cooked chilli. Particular attention is required in cleaning. Catfish do no have scales but their skin is covered by thick slippery mucus. I used a lot of tamarind and coarse salt to get rid of the mucus and its smell.