If you’re a fan of seafood delicacies, the Pempek—an Indonesian fried fish cake—should be at the top of your list. Its crispy exterior and savory fish filling make it a go-to dish for BBQ enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can perfect the art of making Pempek right in your backyard, using the versatile X-BBQ grill. The smoky flavor from grilling takes this traditional dish to new heights, providing a fusion of textures and tastes you won't soon forget.

 

What is Pempek?

Pempek is a traditional fish cake originating from Palembang, Indonesia. It’s made from a mixture of fish (commonly mackerel), tapioca, and a range of spices. The dough is shaped into various forms—some like balls, others cylindrical—before being boiled and then fried for that irresistible crunch.

While typically deep-fried, Pempek can be elevated with a BBQ twist. Grilling your Pempek on an X-BBQ grill imparts a smoky flavor that brings out the natural sweetness of the fish and the delicate spices, creating an unforgettable taste experience.

Why Use X-BBQ for Making Pempek?

The X-BBQ grill is the perfect tool for bringing Pempek to life, allowing you to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior while maintaining the juicy, tender inside. The heat control features of the X-BBQ ensure that the Pempek is cooked evenly without becoming greasy, unlike traditional frying.

X-BBQ’s grills also add a smoky depth to the dish, which complements the mild flavor of the fish. Plus, with the grill's adjustable settings, you can switch between high heat for that perfect char and low heat for slow cooking to ensure every piece of Pempek is evenly grilled.

Preparing Your Fish Cake Batter

To make the perfect Pempek, you’ll need:

• 500g mackerel fillet (deboned)
• 200g tapioca flour
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp white pepper
• Water (for boiling)

Start by blending the mackerel into a smooth paste. Then, combine the fish paste with tapioca flour, garlic, egg, salt, sugar, and pepper. Mix until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be pliable but firm enough to shape.

Shaping and Boiling Pempek

Shape the dough into your preferred style, whether it’s small balls or elongated cylinders. Traditional Pempek also comes in a variety called “Pempek kapal selam” (submarine Pempek), which has an egg in the middle.

Boil the shaped dough for about 10 minutes until it floats to the surface. This step ensures the dough is cooked through before grilling. Once boiled, let the Pempek cool for a few minutes before moving to the grill.

Grilling Pempek on X-BBQ

Now comes the fun part: grilling! Preheat your X-BBQ grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Place the boiled Pempek on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the exterior is crispy and slightly charred. The even heat distribution of the X-BBQ grill ensures that every side of your Pempek gets that perfect crunch without overcooking.

You can also experiment by adding some wood chips to the grill for extra smoky flavor. The adjustable settings on the X-BBQ allow you to create subtle layers of smokiness that enhance the delicate fish flavor.

Serving Your Grilled Pempek

Pempek is traditionally served with a sweet and tangy sauce called "cuko." Here's a simple version you can prepare while your Pempek grills:

• 200g palm sugar
• 2 cloves garlic
• 5 bird's eye chilies (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste
• 300ml water
• Salt to taste

Boil the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly. Strain the mixture to remove any solid bits, and you’re left with a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the smoky Pempek.

Final Touches with X-BBQ

Once your Pempek is done grilling, slice it into bite-sized pieces and drizzle the cuko sauce generously over the top. You can also garnish with cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast to the crispy fish cakes.

The crisp, smoky texture of the Pempek pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy sauce, creating a balanced dish that is both filling and satisfying. Using the X-BBQ grill to prepare Pempek elevates the dish, giving it a modern twist while maintaining the authenticity of its flavors.

Why Choose X-BBQ?

The X-BBQ grill is designed for versatility, making it the perfect tool for cooking a variety of dishes beyond the typical BBQ fare. Its precise heat control allows you to experiment with traditional recipes like Pempek, while its sturdy design ensures reliable performance every time you fire it up.

Plus, the portability of the X-BBQ grill means you can take it anywhere, whether you’re grilling Pempek in your backyard or at a picnic. This flexibility makes X-BBQ a must-have for any culinary enthusiast looking to elevate their cooking game.

Conclusion

Grilling Pempek on an X-BBQ grill not only adds a unique twist to a classic dish but also enhances the overall experience by giving you more control over the cooking process. The result is a perfectly grilled fish cake that is crispy, smoky, and flavorful, paired beautifully with the traditional cuko sauce.

Whether you’re an experienced chef or just getting started in the kitchen, X-BBQ will help you unlock new flavors and techniques, making your cooking experience enjoyable and delicious every time.