Pepes Ikan Patin

Embark on a culinary adventure with Pepes Ikan Patin, a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully showcases the rich flavors of freshwater fish wrapped in aromatic herbs and spices. This traditional preparation not only preserves the moisture and tenderness of the fish but also infuses it with a medley of vibrant flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Perfectly paired with warm rice, this dish promises a heartwarming meal that brings comfort to every dining table.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 1 kg fresh patin fish (ikan patin)
• 3 sheets of banana leaves (daun pisang)
• 1 bunch of basil leaves (daun kemangi)
• 1 ripe tomato, sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Cooking seasoning (optional)

For the Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus):

• 15 large red chilies (cabe merah besar)
• 20 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit, optional for extra heat)
• 4 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
• 6 shallots (bawang merah)
• 2 inches of ginger (jahe)
• 2 inches of galangal (laos)
• 3 inches of turmeric (kunyit)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (merica)
• 5 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 2 stalks of lemongrass (serai)

Preparation Steps

1. Clean the Fish: Start by thoroughly washing the fresh patin fish under running water. Once cleaned, set the fish aside to drain.

2. Prepare the Banana Leaves: To make the banana leaves pliable, soften them by either sun-drying or briefly heating them over low flame on the stove until they become wilted and manageable.

3. Blend the Spices: In a blender, combine all the ingredients for the spice paste and blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. This mixture will serve as the aromatic base for your fish.

4. Mix the Seasoning: Transfer the blended spice paste to a mixing bowl. Add salt and, if desired, cooking seasoning to taste. Incorporate the basil leaves and sliced tomato, stirring gently to ensure everything is well mixed.

5. Marinate the Fish: Gently add the cleaned patin fish into the bowl with the spice mixture. Toss the fish lightly to coat it evenly with the fragrant seasoning.

6. Wrap the Fish: Take a banana leaf and place a portion of the marinated fish in the center. Ensure each package includes some of the basil leaves and tomato slices for added flavor. Fold the leaves securely to form a neat parcel.

7. Steam the Fish: Arrange the wrapped fish in a steamer and cook over medium heat for approximately 30 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and infused with the aromatic spices.

8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the parcels from the steamer and let them rest for a moment. Serve the Pepes Ikan Patin hot, accompanied by steaming white rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

• Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use the freshest ingredients available, especially the fish and herbs.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of chilies according to your heat preference. The optional bird’s eye chilies can add a delightful kick for those who enjoy spicy dishes.
• Presentation: Serve the wrapped parcels directly on the plate for a rustic touch, allowing your guests to unwrap their own fish for a delightful dining experience.

Nutritional Information

While enjoying this savory dish, it’s worth noting that Pepes Ikan Patin not only satisfies your palate but also provides a nutritious meal rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Enjoy the aromatic, flavorful experience of Pepes Ikan Patin, and let the essence of Indonesian cuisine brighten your table!