Ikan Mas Asam Manis: A Delightful Sweet and Sour Carp Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey with the delightful flavors of Ikan Mas Asam Manis, a traditional Indonesian sweet and sour carp dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect blend of spices and tangy sauce. This recipe transforms a simple carp into a mouthwatering centerpiece for any dining occasion. As you prepare this dish, the harmonious medley of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table.

Ingredients

To create this exquisite dish, gather the following ingredients:

Nutritional Information

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Preparation Instructions

Embarking on the preparation of Ikan Mas Asam Manis is an experience that will awaken your inner chef. Follow these steps to create a beautifully cooked dish bursting with flavor:

1. Clean the Carp: Start by thoroughly cleaning the carp, ensuring that all scales and innards are removed. Rinse the fish under cold water and set it aside.

2. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, combine the cleaned carp with a mixture of salt, turmeric, and one clove of minced garlic. Rub the spices generously over the fish, ensuring it is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.

3. Fry the Fish: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated carp to the pan. Fry the fish until it achieves a golden brown color, typically about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the fish from the pan and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

4. Prepare the Spice Mixture: While the fish is frying, prepare the aromatic spice mixture. Finely slice the shallots and garlic, and chop the tomatoes into medium-sized pieces. Set these aside.

5. Sauté the Spices: In the same pan used for frying the fish, remove excess oil, leaving about a tablespoon. Add the sliced shallots, garlic, and chopped chilies to the pan. Sauté these ingredients until they become fragrant and the shallots are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

6. Add the Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes into the pan, stirring well to combine with the sautéed spices. Cook until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down, releasing their juices.

7. Combine the Ingredients: Gently place the fried carp back into the pan with the sautéed spices. Pour in a little water, ensuring the fish is partially submerged. Add sugar, salt, and tomato sauce to taste, along with the tamarind that has been dissolved in a small amount of water.

8. Simmer the Dish: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the fish. This will help the flavors meld together and thicken the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring the balance of sweetness and sourness is just right.

9. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter. Pour the flavorful sauce over the fish, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.

10. Enjoy: Serve your Ikan Mas Asam Manis warm, accompanied by steamed rice and your favorite vegetable side dishes. This dish promises to be a star on your table, bringing smiles and satisfaction to all who partake.

Final Thoughts

Creating Ikan Mas Asam Manis is not just about following a recipe; it’s about engaging with the vibrant ingredients and celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia. Each bite of this dish embodies the essence of sweet and sour flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether it’s a family gathering or a special occasion, this dish will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Happy cooking, and selamat mencoba (happy trying)! ❤️