Pindang Tenggiri Asem Pedas: A Spicy and Tangy Mackerel Soup
Pindang Tenggiri Asem Pedas is a delightful Indonesian dish that showcases the bold flavors of spicy and sour fish soup, perfectly balancing the richness of mackerel with aromatic spices. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a fragrant, flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large Mackerel Fish | 1 whole |
| Garlic (finely ground) | 3 cloves |
| Shallots (finely ground) | 4 cloves |
| Red Chili Peppers (finely ground) | 10 (adjust to taste) |
| Fresh Turmeric (finely ground) | 2 inches |
| Shrimp Paste | To taste |
| Bilimbi (Belimbing Wuluh), sliced | 8 pieces |
| Tamarind Paste | To taste |
| Kaffir Lime Leaves | 3 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Royco (seasoning powder) | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Aromatic Base:
Begin by heating a little oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the finely ground garlic, shallots, red chili peppers, turmeric, and shrimp paste. Sauté the mixture until fragrant and the oil begins to separate, signaling that the spices have released their essential oils. -
-
Create the Soup Base:
Pour in enough water to create the soup base and add the tamarind paste along with the sliced bilimbi. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil. -
Add the Fish:
Once the soup is boiling, gently add the whole mackerel fish. Season the soup with salt, sugar, pepper, and Royco seasoning to taste. Allow the soup to return to a boil. -
Cook the Fish:
Continue to cook the soup until the fish is tender and fully cooked, approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Ensure that the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. -
Finishing Touches:
Before serving, add the kaffir lime leaves for an extra layer of aroma. Adjust the seasoning if needed, tasting for the perfect balance of sour and spicy. -
Serve:
Ladle the Pindang Tenggiri Asem Pedas into bowls, ensuring each serving contains a piece of the tender mackerel and plenty of the flavorful broth. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a warming soup.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the number of chili peppers according to your preferred spice level; adding more will intensify the heat.
- If bilimbi is unavailable, you can substitute it with tamarind or another sour fruit to maintain the dish’s tangy profile.
- For added depth, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional slices of chili before serving.
Conclusion
Pindang Tenggiri Asem Pedas is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with the vibrant tastes of Indonesia. With its enticing aroma and the perfect balance of heat and acidity, this dish is sure to be a standout at your dining table. Enjoy your culinary adventure as you savor this traditional recipe, bringing a taste of Indonesian cuisine into your home.
