Pepes Ikan Patin: A Flavorful Steamed Catfish Delight
Pepes Ikan Patin is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the rich and delicate flavors of the catfish, lovingly wrapped in banana leaves, and infused with a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a treat for the eyes, with its vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Enjoyed with steamed rice, Pepes Ikan Patin makes for a delightful meal, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh catfish (ikan patin) | 1 kg |
| Banana leaves (daun pisang) | 3 sheets |
| Basil leaves (daun kemangi) | 1 bunch |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Salt | to taste |
| Cooking seasoning (optional) | to taste |
| Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus) | |
| Large red chilies (cabe merah) | 15 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 20 pieces (optional) |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 4 cloves |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 6 cloves |
| Ginger (jahe) | 2 finger lengths |
| Galangal (laos) | 2 finger lengths |
| Turmeric (kunyit) | 3 finger lengths |
| Black pepper (merica) | 1 teaspoon |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 5 pieces |
| Lemongrass (serai) | 2 stalks |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Element | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Varies by serving size |
| Protein | High |
| Carbohydrates | Low |
| Fat | Moderate |
| Fiber | Moderate |
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own Pepes Ikan Patin:
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Prepare the Catfish: Begin by cleaning the fresh catfish thoroughly under running water. Once cleaned, set it aside to drain.
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Prepare the Banana Leaves: Soften the banana leaves to make them pliable for wrapping. You can achieve this by briefly heating them over a low flame or letting them sit in the sun until they wilt slightly.
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Blend the Spice Paste: In a blender, combine all the spice ingredients (large red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, garlic, shallots, ginger, galangal, turmeric, black pepper, candlenuts, and lemongrass). Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the blended spice paste to the cleaned catfish. Season with salt and optional cooking seasoning, adjusting to your taste. Gently fold in the basil leaves and sliced tomato, ensuring everything is well combined.
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Wrap the Fish: Take a piece of the softened banana leaf and place a portion of the seasoned catfish mixture in the center. Be sure to include some of the basil leaves and tomato slices in each wrap. Fold the banana leaves securely around the fish to form a parcel.
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Steam the Fish: Arrange the wrapped catfish parcels in a steamer. Steam over medium heat for about 30 minutes or until the fish is thoroughly cooked and the flavors have melded beautifully.
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Serve: Once cooked, carefully unwrap the banana leaves (be cautious of the steam) and transfer the Pepes Ikan Patin to a serving dish. Serve it hot alongside steamed rice for a truly satisfying meal.
This delightful Pepes Ikan Patin recipe is not just a dish but a celebration of flavors that reflects the essence of Indonesian culinary tradition. Each bite delivers a burst of spices and freshness, making it a must-try for those looking to explore new tastes in their cooking adventures. Enjoy your cooking journey with this exquisite recipe!
