Salmon Head Soup (Sup Kepala Salmon)
Experience the rich flavors and nourishing qualities of Salmon Head Soup, a traditional dish that combines fresh ingredients with a delightful blend of spices, making it a perfect comfort food. This recipe is designed to serve a family gathering or to savor as a comforting meal any day of the week. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this flavorful broth, where the head of the salmon becomes a hearty centerpiece of the dish, infused with vibrant vegetables and spices.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon head | 1, cut into small pieces |
| Lemon juice | From 1/2 lemon |
| Onion (large) | 1, chopped |
| Shallots | 4, sliced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Carrots | 3, sliced |
| Ginger | 1 small piece, sliced |
| Bird’s eye chili | 10, whole (or to taste) |
| Asam Medan leaf | 1, optional |
| Green onion | For garnish |
| Celery | For garnish |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Soy sauce | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 220 |
| Protein | Approx. 25g |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 10g |
| Fat | Approx. 10g |
| Sodium | Approx. 300mg |
| Fiber | Approx. 2g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Salmon Head: Begin by washing the salmon head thoroughly to remove any impurities. Once clean, soak it in the juice of half a lemon for about 20 minutes. This process not only helps to cleanse the fish but also adds a subtle tangy flavor. After soaking, rinse the salmon head again under cold water to remove the lemon juice.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced shallots, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture until the onions become translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Water and Ginger: Pour enough water into the pot to cover the salmon head and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the sliced ginger to the pot, allowing the ginger to infuse its warm, aromatic qualities into the broth.
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Incorporate the Salmon Head and Vegetables: Carefully add the marinated salmon head to the boiling broth. Following this, introduce the sliced carrots, green onions, and whole bird’s eye chili to the pot. For a family-friendly version, keep the chilies whole so that they can be enjoyed by everyone. If you’re craving more heat, you can lightly crush the chilies in a bowl before serving, releasing their spiciness into the broth.
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Season the Soup: Season the soup with salt, sugar, and soy sauce to taste. Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the fish cook through.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to add a splash more soy sauce or a pinch of salt.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh green onion and celery leaves for a burst of color and freshness. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a wholesome meal.
Final Thoughts
Salmon Head Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and textures that warm the soul. Each spoonful brings a taste of the ocean, complemented by the freshness of vegetables and the spicy kick from the chilies, making it a delightful dish for gatherings or a quiet night in. Enjoy the process of creating this comforting soup, and share it with loved ones for a truly memorable dining experience.
