Asem-Asem Bandeng (Sour and Spicy Milkfish Soup)
Asem-Asem Bandeng is a refreshing and flavorful Indonesian dish that perfectly balances sour, spicy, and savory notes. Made with fresh milkfish, aromatic spices, and a hint of tang from tamarind and lime, this dish is both simple and satisfying. This recipe will guide you through the process of preparing this delightful dish that can serve as a wholesome meal on its own or be paired with steamed rice.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Milkfish (Ikan Bandeng) | 2 whole fish (cleaned and gutted) |
| Lime Juice | From 1 lime |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 7 cloves, thinly sliced |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 4 cloves, minced |
| Fresh Turmeric (Kunyit) | 2 cm, peeled and grated |
| Fresh Ginger (Jahe) | 2 cm, peeled and crushed |
| Bay Leaves (Daun Salam) | 4 leaves |
| Galangal (Lengkuas) | 3 cm, crushed |
| Lemongrass (Serai) | 3 stalks, smashed |
| Tamarind Paste (Asam) | To taste |
| Sugar (Gula) | To taste |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| Tomatoes (Tomat) | 3 medium, quartered |
| Water (Air) | 1.2 liters |
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | In a large mixing bowl, rub the cleaned milkfish with lime juice and let it sit for 10 minutes to remove the fishy odor and add a subtle tangy flavor. |
| Step 2 | In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, bay leaves, galangal, and lemongrass. Let the broth simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse. |
| Step 3 | Once the broth is aromatic and the flavors are melded together, carefully add the milkfish to the pot. Continue to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. |
| Step 4 | Season the soup with tamarind paste, sugar, and salt according to your taste preference. Stir to combine and balance the sourness, sweetness, and saltiness. |
| Step 5 | Add the tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and integrate into the broth. |
| Step 6 | Once the fish is fully cooked and the broth has reached the perfect balance of flavors, remove from heat. |
| Step 7 | Serve the Asem-Asem Bandeng hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs beautifully with steamed white rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a light, nourishing meal. |
Nutritional Information (Per serving):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: Varies (depends on seasoning)
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this traditional Indonesian sour fish soup! Its rich, aromatic broth is perfect for warming up on a cool evening or when you need a refreshing, zesty dish to awaken your taste buds.
