Ikan Gembung Kuah Asam: A Refreshing Sour Fish Delight
Ikan gembung kuah asam, a traditional Indonesian dish, is celebrated for its balance of flavors, combining the richness of fish with the zesty tang of tamarind and a hint of spice. This recipe captures the essence of this delightful dish, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Let’s dive into the details of this refreshing culinary creation, where each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a flavorful experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan gembung (mackerel) | 2 whole fish |
| Cooking oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Shallots (for sautéing) | 1 clove |
| Green chilies (sliced) | 4 pieces |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| For Grinding | |
| Shallots | 2 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 5 pieces (adjust to taste) |
| Starfruit (asam belimbing) | 7-8 pieces |
| Fresh turmeric | 1 small piece |
| For Marinating the Fish | |
| Lime juice | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Cooking | |
| Water | 750 ml |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | Varies (depends on added salt) |
Instructions
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Preparation of Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the ikan gembung. Cut the fish into suitable pieces and then marinate them with lime juice and salt. Set aside to allow the flavors to infuse.
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Making the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle or food processor, grind together the shallots, bird’s eye chilies, starfruit, and fresh turmeric until you achieve a smooth paste. This mixture will serve as the base of your sauce, infusing the dish with deep flavors.
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Sautéing Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and bay leaves, sautéing until the shallots become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the aromatic foundation of the dish.
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Cooking the Fish: Once the shallots are ready, add the prepared spice paste into the pot. Stir for a couple of minutes to allow the spices to bloom. Then, gently place the marinated fish into the pot, ensuring they are well-coated with the spice mixture. Pour in the water and add the sliced green chilies along with additional salt to taste.
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Simmering to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the dish to cook until the fish is tender and fully cooked through, typically around 15-20 minutes. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
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Serving: Once cooked, your ikan gembung kuah asam is ready to be served! This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors.
Conclusion
Ikan gembung kuah asam not only delights the palate but also serves as a reminder of the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia. With its balance of acidity and heat, this dish offers a refreshing take on fish that is both nourishing and satisfying. Enjoy preparing this delightful recipe, and share the experience with family and friends as you savor the flavors of this exquisite dish!
