Pepes Ikan Patin: A Delightful Indonesian Steamed Fish Dish

Indulge in the rich flavors of Pepes Ikan Patin, a traditional Indonesian dish that features succulent patin fish wrapped in aromatic banana leaves, delivering a delightful fusion of taste and texture. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore vibrant Indonesian cuisine in their own kitchens.

Ingredients

• 1 large patin fish, cut into several pieces
• Banana leaves, enough to wrap the fish
• 1 tomato, chopped
• Fresh basil leaves (daun kemangi), to taste
• 2-3 bay leaves (daun salam)

For the Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus):

• 6 shallots (bawang merah)
• 1 clove of garlic (bawang putih) – optional, as it is often omitted in fish pepes
• 4 candlenuts (kemiri)
• Red bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit merah), to taste for desired spiciness
• 1 piece of turmeric (kunyit), fresh or ground
• Salt and seasoning to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Fish:
   Begin by cutting the patin fish into several pieces. Rinse the pieces under cold water, then rub them with lime juice and salt. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the spice paste.

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2. Make the Spice Paste:
   In a mortar and pestle or food processor, blend the shallots, garlic (if using), candlenuts, red chilies, and turmeric until you achieve a smooth paste. Add salt and seasoning to taste, adjusting according to your preference.

3. Prepare the Banana Leaves:
   To make the banana leaves pliable, briefly heat them over an open flame or a hot surface. This will prevent them from breaking during the wrapping process. Lay out a piece of banana leaf, then place one layer of bay leaves and a few basil leaves on top.

4. Wrap the Fish:
   Place a piece of the marinated fish on the leaves, generously coated with the spice paste. Top with chopped tomato and additional basil leaves. Carefully fold the banana leaves to enclose the fish completely, securing the ends with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

5. Steam the Pepes:
   Arrange the wrapped fish parcels in a steamer and cook for approximately 25 minutes. The gentle steaming will infuse the fish with the aromatic spices while keeping it moist and tender.

6. Grill for Extra Flavor:
   Once the fish is cooked, allow the parcels to cool slightly. For an added layer of flavor, grill the wrapped fish over a charcoal grill or stovetop griddle until the banana leaves become slightly charred and fragrant.

7. Serve:
   Carefully unwrap the pepes and serve them hot. Enjoy this delicious dish alongside steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Success

• Freshness is Key: Choose the freshest patin fish available for the best flavor and texture. If patin isn’t accessible, feel free to substitute with another firm white fish.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chilies according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or use a different variety.
• Make Ahead: Pepes Ikan Patin can be prepared in advance and steamed just before serving, making it a convenient dish for gatherings or busy weeknights.

Enjoy Your Cooking Adventure!

Dive into the flavors of Indonesia with this easy-to-follow recipe for Pepes Ikan Patin. The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and the natural richness of the fish creates a dish that is not only wholesome but also brimming with authentic taste. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!