Zesty Indonesian Patin Fish Stew with Cabbage and Mustard Greens

Pindang Serani Ikan Patin Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 fresh Patin fish, cut into 6 pieces
• Leftover cabbage and mustard greens (adjust quantity as desired)
• Spices and Aromatics:
  • 10 large red chilies, sliced diagonally
  • 5 small red chilies, sliced diagonally
  • 10 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • A piece of turmeric, thinly sliced
  • A piece of galangal, smashed
  • A piece of ginger, smashed
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves
  • 1 tomato, cut into quarters
• Tamarind juice (for seasoning)
• Lime juice (for marinating the fish and additional sourness)
• Cooking oil or olive oil (if available)
• Salt, sugar, and flavor enhancer (like Masako) to taste
• Water

Steps:

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Wash the Patin fish thoroughly and rub it with lime juice. Optionally, you can pan-fry the fish until half-cooked to enhance its flavor and texture.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Slice all the aromatics and spices as listed.

3. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Heat some oil in a pan. Sauté all the sliced spices and aromatics, except the tomato, until fragrant and slightly softened.

4. Simmer the Base:

   • In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the sautéed spices along with bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass. Stir briefly to blend the flavors.

5. Add the Fish:

   • Place the fish pieces into the pot. Let it cook until the fish is almost done.

6. Season the Broth:

   • Add sugar, salt, and flavor enhancer (Masako) to taste. For added richness, drizzle in 5 teaspoons of olive oil. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

7. Add Vegetables and Tomato:

   • Incorporate the cabbage, mustard greens, and tomato into the pot. Cook until the vegetables are slightly wilted and the fish is fully cooked.

8. Finish and Serve:

   • Check the flavor and adjust seasoning if needed. Once everything is well-cooked and flavorful, your Pindang Serani Ikan Patin is ready to be served.

Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a hearty meal. Happy cooking!