Bandeng Presto: The Perfectly Steamed and Fried Milkfish Delight
Bandeng Presto is a beloved dish from Indonesia, celebrated for its tender and flavorful milkfish that’s infused with spices, then expertly cooked to perfection. This recipe will guide you through the process of preparing this delightful dish, ensuring a mouthwatering experience that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cleaned milkfish (bandeng), cut in half | 1 kg |
| Fried fish spice mix (bumbu ikan goreng) | 1 packet |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 3 leaves |
| Lemongrass (serai), chopped | 1 stalk, cut into small pieces |
| Eggs | 2, beaten |
| Cooking oil | As needed for frying |
| Water | As needed for boiling |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by lining your pressure cooker with banana leaves, creating a natural layer that imparts additional flavor to the fish. |
| 2 | Place the bay leaves and chopped lemongrass on the bottom of the pot to infuse the fish with aromatic flavors during cooking. |
| 3 | Carefully arrange the cleaned and halved milkfish in the pot, ensuring they are placed neatly on top of the herbs for even cooking. |
| 4 | Sprinkle the fried fish spice mix over the fish, ensuring an even distribution to enhance the taste. |
| 5 | Pour in water until it reaches just the level of the fish, taking care not to submerge it completely. |
| 6 | Seal the pressure cooker and cook over medium heat for one hour once the steam begins to escape. This process will ensure the fish is tender and infused with flavor. |
| 7 | Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure cooker to cool down. Carefully open it, and transfer the fish to a plate to drain excess liquid. |
| 8 | Heat the cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Dip each piece of the cooked milkfish in the beaten eggs, then gently place them in the hot oil to fry. |
| 9 | Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, approximately 3–4 minutes per side. Once fried, remove the fish and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. |
| 10 | Serve your delicious Bandeng Presto warm, garnished with fresh herbs or chili if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a side of sambal. |
Conclusion
Indulging in Bandeng Presto allows you to experience the perfect combination of textures and flavors, from the tender, juicy fish to the crisp golden exterior. It’s a dish that celebrates the richness of Indonesian culinary traditions, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy this delightful dish with loved ones, and let the flavors transport you to the heart of Indonesia!
