Ikan Kembung Masak Santan: A Rich and Flavorful Dish

Introduction

Dive into the delightful world of Ikan Kembung Masak Santan, a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the perfect harmony of fresh ingredients and creamy coconut milk. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brimming with vibrant flavors, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish promises to impress.

Ingredients

To create this sumptuous dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pieces of Ikan Kembung, cut into several portions
• 4 large green chilies, sliced
• 5 red chilies, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, sliced
• 3 shallots, sliced
• Baby corn, sliced (as needed)
• Green onions, sliced (as needed)
• 2 green tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 2 pieces of bay leaves
• 1 segment of galangal, crushed
• 1 segment of ginger, crushed
• Salt (to taste)
• Sugar (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Coconut milk (such as Kara brand, as needed)
• Optional: Royco beef seasoning (to taste)
• Clean water (as needed)

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and shallots along with both types of chilies. Sauté until they release a fragrant aroma, which will form the flavorful base of your dish.

2. Add the Fish and Seasonings: Once the aromatics are fragrant, introduce the bay leaves, crushed galangal, crushed ginger, and the portions of Ikan Kembung to the pan. Pour in enough clean water to cover the fish and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

3. Incorporate Additional Ingredients: As the mixture reaches a rolling boil, add in the sliced baby corn and green tomatoes. Season with salt, sugar, Royco (if using), and pepper to taste. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low, ensuring a gentle simmer. (Not too low, though; we want it to cook evenly! 😊)

4. Final Touches: After some time, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add the sliced green onions, followed by the coconut milk. Stir gently to combine everything, then allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until heated through.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once your Ikan Kembung Masak Santan is cooked and infused with rich flavors, remove it from the heat and serve warm. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and makes for a satisfying meal that showcases the essence of Indonesian cuisine.

Conclusion

Ikan Kembung Masak Santan is not just a dish; it’s an experience that transports you to the heart of Indonesia with every bite. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a taste of tradition in the comfort of your home. Happy cooking! 🌟