Pindang Baung: A Deliciously Spiced Catfish Soup
Pindang Baung is a traditional Indonesian dish known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. This delightful fish soup features ikan baung (catfish) cooked in a rich broth infused with an array of spices and fresh herbs, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether served as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or as a flavorful addition to a family gathering, Pindang Baung is sure to impress with its unique taste and aromatic profile.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan baung (catfish), cut into 3 pieces | 2 fish (approximately 500g) |
| Water | 3/4 pot (medium size) |
| Coarse ground spices: | |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5-7 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 2 pieces |
| Curly chili (cabe kriting) | 3 pieces |
| Shrimp paste (terasi ABC) | 1/2 packet |
| Salt (garam) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar (gula pasir) | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce (kecap asin) | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric root (kunyit), finely ground | 1 piece, about 1/2 tablespoon |
| Galangal root (lengkuas), finely ground | 1 piece, about 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger (jahe), smashed | 1 cm |
| Lemongrass (serai), smashed | 1 stalk |
| Tamarind (mata asam jawa) | 1-2 pieces |
| Cherry tomatoes, sliced | 3 pieces |
| Pineapple, cut into pieces | 1/8 piece |
| Bird’s eye chili (cabe rawit) | 10-20 whole |
| Thai basil leaves (kemangi), picked | 1 bunch |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fats | 4 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Sugars | 5 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the ikan baung thoroughly. Remove the gills and any blood clots, then wash the fish well under running water. Once cleaned, set the fish aside to drain.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, pour in approximately 3/4 pot of water. Add all the coarse ground spices, including the shallots, garlic, curly chili, shrimp paste, salt, sugar, and soy sauce. Stir the mixture to combine all the spices evenly in the water.
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Cook the Broth: Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, allow it to simmer, letting the broth cook for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the aromatic flavors will develop, filling your kitchen with a delightful fragrance. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if necessary, ensuring it has the right balance of saltiness and sweetness.
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Add Fish and Aromatics: Gently place the cleaned fish pieces into the boiling broth. To enhance the flavor profile, add the finely ground turmeric, galangal, smashed ginger, and lemongrass. Include the tamarind pieces, sliced cherry tomatoes, and pineapple chunks as well. Allow everything to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the fish is thoroughly cooked and flaky.
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Finish with Herbs: Once the fish is cooked, add the whole bird’s eye chilies and the picked Thai basil leaves to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate the herbs into the soup without breaking the fish pieces. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the fresh herbs to infuse their fragrance into the broth.
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Serve: Ladle the Pindang Baung into bowls and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying soup. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every spoonful!
Tips for Perfecting Pindang Baung
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Choose Fresh Fish: Always opt for fresh ikan baung to ensure the best taste and texture. Look for firm flesh and a clean smell when purchasing.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the number of bird’s eye chilies based on your heat preference. For a milder version, reduce the amount or use fewer spicy ingredients.
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Experiment with Vegetables: You can add additional vegetables like green beans or eggplant for more texture and nutrition.
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Storage: Pindang Baung can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve the flavors and texture of the fish.
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Cultural Variations: This recipe can be adapted to include regional ingredients or spices according to personal taste, allowing for unique twists on this traditional dish.
Pindang Baung not only showcases the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that can satisfy any palate. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, warming hearts and bellies alike!
