Kepala Ikan Bawal Kuah Kuning
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delightful Kepala Ikan Bawal Kuah Kuning, a traditional dish that beautifully combines the fresh taste of fish with aromatic spices and a comforting broth. Perfect for serving on special occasions or any day you crave something special!
Ingredients
- 2 large kepala ikan bawal (bawal fish heads)
- 1 lime (jeruk nipis)
- 2 green tomatoes, sliced (tomat hijau)
- 5 bird’s eye chilies, sliced (cabe rawit)
- 1 stalk lemongrass, crushed (serai)
- Water, as needed
For the Spice Paste:
- 5 shallots (bawang merah)
- 3 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
- 1 cm ginger (jahe)
- 1 cm turmeric (kunyit)
- 1 candlenut (kemiri)
- Salt, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- Seasoning powder (kaldu bubuk), to taste
Preparation Steps
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by cleaning the fish heads thoroughly under running water. Squeeze lime juice over the fish heads and let them sit for a few moments to absorb the flavor. (Note: This step can be skipped if you’re short on time.) -
Make the Spice Paste:
In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and candlenut. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. -
Sauté the Spices:
In a pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste and sauté until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. -
Create the Broth:
Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a simmer. Add the green tomatoes, sliced chilies, and crushed lemongrass to the pot. -
Season to Taste:
Season the broth with salt, sugar, and seasoning powder according to your taste preferences. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. -
Add the Fish:
Carefully add the fish heads to the pot. Let them cook in the aromatic broth until they are fully cooked and tender. -
Final Touches:
Taste the broth once more, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. Allow the dish to simmer for a few more minutes, letting all the flavors meld beautifully. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked to perfection, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this delicious Kepala Ikan Bawal Kuah Kuning with steamed rice for a truly authentic experience.
Tips for Enjoyment
Pair this dish with a side of steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, showcasing the richness of Indonesian culinary traditions.
Happy cooking and savor every bite! 😊
