Gurame Goreng Asam Manis: A Sweet and Sour Fried Gourami Delight
Introduction
Gurame Goreng Asam Manis, or Sweet and Sour Fried Gourami, is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine with its crispy fried fish topped with a luscious sweet and sour sauce. This recipe transforms the humble gourami fish into a delightful centerpiece for any meal, showcasing the rich flavors of the sauce that complement the crispy texture of the fish. Perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner, this dish is sure to impress both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gourami fish | 1 whole, cleaned and cut to preference |
| Lime juice | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1 tsp |
| All-purpose flour | 100 g |
| Wheat flour | 100 g |
| Oil | For frying |
| For the Sweet and Sour Sauce: | |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Carrot | 100 g, julienned |
| Tomato | 1 medium, diced |
| Green onion (scallions) | 1 stalk, sliced diagonally |
| Tomato ketchup | 3 tbsp |
| Chili sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Water | 50 ml |
| Cornstarch | 1 tsp, dissolved in water |
| Oil | 2 tbsp, for sautéing |
Nutritional Information
(Approximate values per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fats | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Instructions
-
Marinating the Fish:
Begin by cleaning the gourami fish thoroughly, ensuring that it is free from any residual scales or impurities. Cut the fish into portions that suit your preference. In a mixing bowl, combine the fish with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture well into the fish, allowing it to marinate for approximately 10 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and tenderizes the fish, making it more enjoyable when cooked. -
Coating the Fish:
After marinating, dredge the fish in a mixture of all-purpose flour and wheat flour. Make sure each piece is evenly coated to achieve a perfect crispy exterior once fried. The flour coating not only adds texture but also helps seal in the moisture of the fish. -
Frying the Fish:
In a deep frying pan or wok, heat enough oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated fish pieces into the oil. Fry the fish until it turns golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. -
Preparing the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, incorporate the tomato ketchup, chili sauce, and oyster sauce into the mixture. Stir well to combine the flavors. -
Adding Vegetables:
Add the julienned carrots and pour in the water, cooking the mixture until the carrots are tender but still have a slight crunch, about 3-5 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and sugar, adjusting to your taste preference. To thicken the sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional minute until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. -
Final Touches:
Once the sauce is ready, gently fold in the diced tomatoes and sliced green onions, allowing them to warm slightly before removing the pan from the heat. -
Serving:
To serve, place the crispy fried gourami on a large serving platter and generously spoon the sweet and sour sauce over the fish. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma will surely tantalize your guests’ taste buds. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fried rice, making it a delightful meal option.
Conclusion
Gurame Goreng Asam Manis is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, all while showcasing the tender and flaky goodness of gourami fish. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression, bringing a taste of Indonesia to your table. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and savoring this exquisite dish, sharing it with loved ones and making cherished memories around the dining table.
