Ikan Kembung Acar Kuning: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Dish
Ikan Kembung Acar Kuning is a delightful Indonesian dish featuring mackerel fish cooked in a tangy yellow sauce, accented by an array of colorful vegetables. This recipe combines savory, spicy, and sour notes that come together beautifully, making it a perfect main dish for any gathering. The preparation involves marinating the fish, frying it to a crispy golden brown, and then simmering it with aromatic spices and vegetables, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor. Let’s explore the detailed steps and ingredients to create this culinary delight.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mackerel fish (Ikan Kembung) | 3 whole, halved and cleaned |
| Lime juice | From 1 lime |
| Carrot | 1 medium, cut into matchsticks |
| Cucumber | 1/2, cut into matchsticks |
| Potato | 1 small, cut into matchsticks |
| Fried fish spice mix (e.g., Racik) | 1/2 packet |
| Green bird’s eye chili (Cabai rawit hijau) | 15, whole |
| Onion (Bawang Bombay) | 1, sliced |
| White vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Kaffir lime leaves (Daun jeruk) | 1 leaf |
| Salam leaves (Daun salam) | 1 leaf |
| Galangal (Laos) | 1 finger-sized piece, crushed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | To taste |
| Spice Paste: | |
| Garlic (Bawang putih) | 2 cloves |
| Whole coriander (Ketumbar bulat) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Candlenuts (Kemiri) | 2 nuts |
| Red curly chili (Cabai merah keriting) | 10, roughly chopped |
| Green bird’s eye chili (Cabai rawit hijau) | 10, roughly chopped |
| Fresh turmeric (Kunyit) | 1 finger-sized piece |
| Ginger (Jahe) | 1 finger-sized piece |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by cleaning the mackerel fish thoroughly, then slice them in half. Rub the fish with lime juice and the fried fish spice mix, ensuring an even coating. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor. -
-
Fry the Fish:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated fish and fry until they are golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the fish from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. -
Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the ground spice paste, sliced onion, green bird’s eye chili, crushed galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and salam leaves. Cook until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. -
Simmer the Vegetables:
Pour in one cup of water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the fried fish, matchstick-cut carrot, and potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender but not mushy, roughly 10-12 minutes. -
Season to Taste:
Season the mixture with salt, sugar, ground black pepper, and flavor enhancer if using. Adjust according to your taste preferences. -
Add the Final Touches:
Once the vegetables are half-cooked, gently fold in the cucumber. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the water has reduced and all ingredients are well combined. Turn off the heat and stir in the white vinegar for a zesty kick. -
Serve:
Transfer the Ikan Kembung Acar Kuning to a serving dish, ensuring the fish and vegetables are evenly distributed. This dish is best served warm with steamed rice, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine through.
Enjoying Your Creation
Ikan Kembung Acar Kuning is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich Indonesian flavors and aromas. The combination of tender mackerel, crunchy vegetables, and the tangy, spicy sauce will surely impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
