Step 1

Wash the ikan bilis a few times in clean cool tap water – this will help remove excess salt, drain well. Spread the ikan bilis in a single layer on some absorbent paper, and pat dry with another piece. Allow the ikan bilis to air dry for one to two hours.Note: You want the ikan bilis to be as dry as possible, this will help stop oil splatter when you cook them in hot oil.

Step 2

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a fry pan or work, then fry the Ikan bilis in batches until golden brown and crispy, place on a plate lined with absorbent paper and put aside. Discard the oil and wipe the pan clean.

Step 3

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the clean pan, add the onion and fry until golden brown, add the chillies and lime leaves, stir fry for a few minutes, then add salt, sugar and lime juice. Stir the mixture until it becomes slightly dry, turn the heat down to low and add the ikan bilis, peanuts and chips, mixing until it is well coated.

Step 4

Adjust the seasoning if you like with a little more sugar, salt or lime juice.

Step 5

Allow to cool, then store in an air tight container.

Step 6

Serve as a side dish to Nasil Lemak, enjoy it is a spicy sandwich filling or eat it as a snack.