Ikan Patin Pedas Manis: A Delightful Indonesian Dish
Indulge in the rich flavors of Ikan Patin Pedas Manis, a delicious Indonesian dish featuring catfish simmered in a sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe beautifully balances the freshness of herbs and the warmth of spices, perfect for a family meal or a special gathering. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 500 grams catfish (ikan patin), cleaned and prepped
- 5 shallots, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ small onion, thinly sliced
- Red curly chilies (cabe merah keriting), sliced to taste
- Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit setan), left whole, to taste
- 1 piece galangal, bruised
- 2 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
- 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 3 green onions (bawang daun), thinly sliced
Preparation Steps
Follow these straightforward steps to create a mouthwatering Ikan Patin Pedas Manis:
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Prep the Catfish: Start by washing the catfish thoroughly and patting it dry. Rub the fish with salt to enhance its flavor, then fry until it’s half-dry. This initial frying helps create a delightful texture that will hold up in the sauce.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a hot skillet, sauté the sliced shallots, garlic, onion, and red curly chilies until fragrant. This step releases their essential oils, creating a beautiful base for the dish.
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Combine with Fish: Add the fried catfish to the pan, gently incorporating it with the sautéed aromatics. Pour in a little water to help meld the flavors together.
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Season the Dish: Stir in the sweet soy sauce, bruised galangal, kaffir lime leaves, salt, and sugar. Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
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Simmer and Infuse: Allow the mixture to simmer, enabling the flavors to penetrate the fish thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving that deep, rich flavor that characterizes this dish.
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Final Touches: Once the fish has absorbed the sauce, add the sliced green onions and whole bird’s eye chilies. Stir gently, then remove from heat.
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Serve: Transfer the Ikan Patin Pedas Manis to a serving dish, and enjoy it warm with steamed rice for a truly satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but is also packed with nutrients from the fish and fresh vegetables. It’s a wholesome option that complements any meal plan.
Conclusion
Ikan Patin Pedas Manis is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to explore new flavors, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and delight in the vibrant flavors of this beloved dish. Enjoy!
