Pepes Patin: Steamed and Grilled Catfish Delight

Pepes Patin, a beloved dish from Indonesia, showcases the rich flavors of spiced catfish wrapped in banana leaves. This aromatic and flavorful preparation is not only visually appealing but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Here’s how to prepare this exquisite dish, which combines a variety of spices and fresh ingredients for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

Spice Paste (Bumbu)

• 10 shallots (bawang merah)
• 6 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
• 5 candlenuts (kemiri)
• ½ teaspoon shrimp paste (terasi)
• 1 large red chili pepper (cabe merah besar)
• To taste: sugar (gula)
• To taste: salt (garam)
• To taste: seasoning (penyedap)
• To taste: pepper (lada)

Filling

• 3 large red chili peppers (cabe merah besar)
• 1 large green chili pepper (cabe hijau besar)
• 2 tomatoes (tomat)
• Banana leaves (daun pisang, pre-heated over fire)
• 3 pieces of catfish (ikan patin)
• 6-8 toothpicks (tusuk gigi)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: Combine all the spice ingredients listed under bumbu into a blender or mortar. Blend until smooth and fragrant.

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2. Prepare the Banana Leaves: Heat the banana leaves over an open flame until they become pliable and easier to work with. This prevents tearing during wrapping.

3. Assemble the Dish: Place one piece of catfish on the prepared banana leaf. Generously coat it with the spice paste, ensuring the fish is thoroughly covered. Top with slices of red and green chili peppers, as well as tomato slices for added flavor and freshness.

4. Wrap the Fish: Carefully fold the banana leaf over the fish to create a secure parcel, making sure all sides are sealed. Use toothpicks to secure the edges and prevent opening during cooking.

5. Steam the Fish: Place the wrapped fish in a steamer and cook for approximately 10 minutes. This step ensures the fish absorbs all the aromatic flavors from the spice paste.

6. Grill the Fish: After steaming, transfer the parcels to a grill and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the outside to char slightly while infusing the fish with a smoky aroma.

7. Serve: Once cooked, carefully unwrap the banana leaves and serve your Pepes Patin hot. Enjoy the succulent fish paired with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the spice paste is finely ground to achieve a smooth consistency, which will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding or reducing the amount of chili peppers to suit your taste.
• Serve this dish with sambal or a side of fresh vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the Pepes Patin.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values will vary based on exact ingredients and portions used, Pepes Patin is generally a healthy dish, rich in protein and essential nutrients from the fish and vegetables, making it a fantastic choice for a wholesome meal.

Indulge in this aromatic and flavorful Pepes Patin, a delightful Indonesian specialty that brings warmth and richness to any dining table! Enjoy your culinary journey!