Spicy Indonesian Bandeng Fish with Aromatic Pesmol Sauce

Pesmol Ikan Bandeng Recipe: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Experience the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this Pesmol Ikan Bandeng recipe. This dish features succulent bandeng fish coated in a rich, spicy, and tangy sauce that’s perfect for a satisfying meal. Here’s how you can bring this delightful recipe to your table:

Ingredients:

• For the Fish:

  • 2 medium bandeng fish (bandeng), cleaned and cut into desired pieces
  • Salt, to taste

• For the Spice Paste:

  • 5 cloves of shallots
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 3 candlenuts
  • 2 cm turmeric root
  • 1 segment of galangal
  • 3 red chilies
  • 250 ml water
  • Cooking oil, as needed

• For the Complementary Spices:

  • 5-10 red bird’s eye chilies
  • 1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Sugar, to taste
  • Seasoning powder, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Cut the bandeng fish into pieces according to your preference. Wash them thoroughly.
   • Rub the fish pieces with salt to season them. Allow them to sit for a few minutes.

2. Fry the Fish:

   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Fry the seasoned fish pieces until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, galangal, and red chilies.
   • Add a little water and blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

4. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

5. Add Complementary Spices:

   • To the pan with the spice paste, add the red bird’s eye chilies, bruised lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves.
   • Stir and cook for a few minutes to release their flavors.

6. Simmer the Sauce:

   • Pour 250 ml of water into the pan and bring it to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the fried fish pieces into the sauce.
   • Gently stir to coat the fish with the sauce. Allow it to simmer so the flavors meld together and the fish absorbs the seasoning.

7. Final Adjustments:

   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, sugar, and seasoning powder as needed.
   • Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens and the fish is well-coated.

8. Serve:

   • Once the sauce has reduced and thickened, remove the pan from the heat.
   • Transfer the Pesmol Ikan Bandeng to a serving dish.

Enjoy this traditional Indonesian dish with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal. The Pesmol Ikan Bandeng is sure to impress with its harmonious blend of spices and its deliciously seasoned fish.