Spicy Tamarind Tilapia Stew

Asam Pedas Ikan Nila (Spicy Tamarind Fish)

This delightful Indonesian dish, Asam Pedas Ikan Nila, features the delicate flavor of Nile tilapia (ikan nila) cooked in a tangy and spicy tamarind sauce. It combines a range of aromatic spices and herbs to create a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the fish beautifully. Ideal for those who enjoy a balance of heat and tanginess in their meals, this recipe is both comforting and vibrant.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole Nile tilapia (medium size), cleaned and gutted
• 5 small red chilies (cabe rawit), sliced
• 250 ml water
• 1 cm galangal (laos), bruised
• 1 stalk lemongrass (sereh), bruised
• 1 bay leaf (daun salam)
• 1 kaffir lime leaf (daun jeruk)
• 1 turmeric leaf (daun kunyit)
• Salt or Royco seasoning, to taste

For the Spice Paste:

• 100 g red chilies (cabe merah)
• 1 cm fresh turmeric (kunyit)
• 1 cm fresh ginger (jahe)
• 2 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 4 shallots (bawang merah)
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds (ketumbar)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the red chilies, turmeric, ginger, candlenuts, garlic, shallots, and coriander seeds. Blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Spice Paste:

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

3. Add Aromatics:

   • To the pan, add the bruised lemongrass, galangal, bay leaf, kaffir lime leaf, and turmeric leaf. Stir briefly to release their flavors.

4. Add Liquid and Seasonings:

   • Pour in the water and bring to a simmer. Season with salt or Royco to taste.

5. Cook the Fish:

   • Gently add the whole tilapia and the sliced red chilies to the pan. Simmer until the fish is cooked through and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce, about 10-15 minutes.

6. Serve:

   • Once the fish is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat. Serve the Asam Pedas Ikan Nila hot, accompanied by steamed rice.

Enjoy this spicy and tangy dish that brings a touch of Indonesian flair to your table. The combination of aromatic herbs and spices makes it a memorable addition to any meal.