Coconut Milk Snapper Soup: A Flavorful Delight

This delightful Coconut Milk Snapper Soup, inspired by traditional Indonesian flavors, features fresh red snapper infused with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Southeast Asia.

Ingredients

• 3 fresh red snapper (ikan kakap merah), cleaned and cut into two pieces
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (sereh), bruised
• 1/2 inch ginger (jahe), peeled
• 3 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 10 red chilies (cabe merah), seeds removed for less heat if desired
• A pinch of turmeric (kunyit)
• 8 shallots (bawang merah), peeled
• 5 garlic cloves (bawang putih), peeled
• 1 teaspoon coriander (ketumbar)
• 1/2 tomato, chopped
• 1 box of Kara coconut milk (or any coconut milk brand)
• Cooking oil, as needed
• Water, as needed
• Royco seasoning (or similar seasoning) to taste
• Sugar, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Snapper: Clean the snapper thoroughly, then cut each fish into two pieces. Allow them to drain while you prepare the spices.

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2. Blend the Spices: In a food processor or mortar and pestle, blend together the shallots, garlic, ginger, candlenuts, red chilies, and a pinch of turmeric until smooth.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a pot, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Add the blended spice mixture along with the bruised lemongrass and bay leaves. Sauté until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

4. Add the Snapper: Gently add the snapper pieces to the pot, followed by enough water to cover the fish. Allow it to simmer with the lid on until the fish is tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.

5. Prepare the Garnish: While the fish cooks, slice the shallots thinly for garnish.

6. Incorporate the Coconut Milk: Once the snapper is cooked through, slowly pour in the Kara coconut milk, stirring gently to combine without breaking apart the fish. Add chopped tomato, Royco seasoning, and sugar to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes.

7. Fry the Shallots: In a small pan, heat oil and fry the sliced shallots until they are golden brown. This will serve as a crunchy topping for your soup.

8. Serve: Once the soup is ready and flavors melded, carefully ladle it into bowls. Top with the fried shallots for an added texture and flavor.

Enjoy the Delight

This Coconut Milk Snapper Soup not only embodies the essence of comfort food but also serves as a wonderful representation of vibrant Indonesian cuisine. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete meal, and savor each delicious spoonful that warms both the heart and soul. Enjoy your culinary adventure!