Sweet and Savory Salted Catfish (Asin Manis Ikan Cucut)
Introduction
The culinary tradition of Southeast Asia is rich with flavors that evoke warmth and nostalgia, and one dish that embodies this spirit is Asin Manis Ikan Cucut, a delightful sweet and savory dish made with salted catfish. This recipe combines the unique flavor of salted catfish with aromatic spices and a touch of sweetness, resulting in a dish that’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salted catfish | 1 piece (potong ikan cucut asin) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (siung bawang putih) |
| Shallots | 1 clove (siung bawang merah) |
| Ginger | 1 small piece (ruas jahe) |
| Galangal | 1 small piece (ruas lengkuas) |
| Nutmeg | 1 slice (iris pala) |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons (2 sdm gula merah) |
| Sweet soy sauce | 2 tablespoons (2 sdm kecap manis) |
| Seasoning | To taste (secukupnya penyedap) |
| Water | As needed (secukupnya air) |
| Cooking oil | For frying (minyak goreng) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | High (due to salted fish) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Salted Catfish
Start by soaking the salted catfish in water for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to reduce the excess saltiness of the fish, making the dish more balanced in flavor. After soaking, cut the fish into small cubes. -
-
Chop the Aromatics
While the catfish is soaking, finely slice the shallots and garlic. Also, prepare the ginger and galangal by slicing them into thin pieces, and set all the aromatics aside for later use. -
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pan or wok, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced shallots, garlic, nutmeg, ginger, and galangal to the pan. Sauté these ingredients until they become fragrant and lightly golden, releasing their wonderful aromas. -
Add the Salted Catfish
After the aromatics are fragrant, gently add the cubed salted catfish to the pan. Stir well to combine the ingredients, ensuring that the fish is evenly coated with the aromatic mixture. Pour in a small amount of water to help create a sauce, and continue stirring gently. -
Season and Sweeten
Add the seasoning, sweet soy sauce, and brown sugar to the pan. Stir the mixture thoroughly, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the flavors to meld together. Taste the dish at this point and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a bit more sugar. -
Thicken the Sauce
Continue cooking the mixture until it thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened and the fish is cooked through, remove the pan from heat. -
Serve
Transfer the sweet and savory salted catfish to a serving dish. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be served alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors that this traditional dish brings to your table!
Conclusion
Asin Manis Ikan Cucut is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create an exquisite dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The balance of salty, sweet, and aromatic elements makes this recipe a fantastic addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and delight. Happy cooking!
