Sup Ikan Gurame: A Deliciously Refreshing Indonesian Fish Soup

Dive into the comforting flavors of Sup Ikan Gurame, a traditional Indonesian fish soup that perfectly balances the freshness of fish with fragrant herbs and spices. This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a heartwarming meal any day of the week. Here’s how to create this culinary gem that’s bound to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 whole Gurame fish (cleaned and filleted for convenience)

Seasoning:

• 3 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 piece of ginger, thinly sliced
• 3 green tomatoes, sliced
• Tamarind paste (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 bunch of Thai basil

Optional Garnish:

• Fried garlic (to sprinkle on top before serving)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by thoroughly washing the Gurame fish. For added flavor and freshness, soak it in lime juice for about 15 minutes. This not only enhances the taste but also helps eliminate any fishy odor. If you’re short on time, you can ask your fishmonger to fillet the fish for you to simplify the process.

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2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced shallots, garlic, and ginger. Sauté these aromatics until they become fragrant and translucent, allowing their essential oils to infuse the oil.

3. Create the Soup Base: After the aromatics are ready, add enough water to the pot to form a broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Cook the Fish: Once the broth is bubbling, carefully add the filleted fish into the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the fish to cook through and absorb the savory broth.

5. Season to Perfection: Next, incorporate the fish sauce, tamarind paste, sliced green tomatoes, salt, and any additional seasonings to your taste. It’s important to taste as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced and to your liking.

6. Finish with Freshness: Once the soup is well-seasoned and the fish is cooked, turn off the heat. Add the fresh Thai basil leaves, which will impart a delightful aroma and freshness to the soup.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Your Sup Ikan Gurame is now ready to be served! Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s still warm. For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle some fried garlic on top, tailored to your preference.

Serving Suggestion

This soup is best enjoyed hot, perhaps alongside steamed rice or crusty bread for a wholesome meal. The combination of tender fish, aromatic herbs, and the light, tangy broth will surely make it a favorite among your loved ones.

Final Thoughts

Sup Ikan Gurame embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting meal, this fish soup is an excellent choice that is both nourishing and satisfying. Enjoy your culinary journey with this delicious recipe!