Crispy Sweet and Sour Carp (Ikan Mas Asam Manis)

Sweet and Sour Carp (Ikan Mas Asam Manis)

This Sweet and Sour Carp is a delectable and flavorful Indonesian dish featuring tender carp cooked in a vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce. A perfect combination of fresh vegetables, savory sauces, and aromatic spices, this dish will be a hit at your next family dinner or gathering. The marinated fish, crisp-fried to perfection, is served with a luscious sweet and sour sauce that packs a punch of flavors.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish:

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   • In a bowl, mix the lime juice, salt, and grated garlic to create the marinade for the fish.
   • Coat the cleaned carp thoroughly with this marinade and let it sit for about 30 minutes to 1 hour to absorb the flavors.

2. Fry the Fish:

   • Heat enough oil in a large pan for shallow frying. Once the oil is hot, fry the marinated carp until it is slightly cooked. This is important because the fish will be cooked further in the sweet and sour sauce.
   • If you prefer, you can fry the fish until it is fully cooked and crispy, then simply pour the sweet and sour sauce over the top before serving.

3. Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

   • In another pan, heat a little oil and sauté the crushed garlic and thinly sliced red onion until fragrant.
   • Add water to the pan, then toss in the carrot strips and let them cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
   • Stir in the oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce, and tomato ketchup, followed by the red chili, lemongrass, and bay leaf. Cook the mixture until the carrots are slightly tender. If necessary, add more water to adjust the sauce consistency.

4. Season the Sauce:

   • Season the sauce with salt, pepper, sugar, and optional flavor enhancer (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
   • Add the sliced spring onions and fried carp to the pan. Gently toss the fish in the sauce to coat it evenly and simmer the dish for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

5. Serving:

   • Once the sauce has reduced and the fish is well-coated with the sweet and sour glaze, remove from heat. Serve the sweet and sour carp immediately while hot with steamed white rice or fried rice.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

This Sweet and Sour Carp recipe is a true showcase of Indonesian flavors with a balance of sweet, sour, and savory elements. The crispy fish, combined with the vibrant sauce, creates an irresistible dish that everyone will enjoy. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles to complete this beautiful, flavorful meal.