Gurame Asam Manis: A Sweet and Sour Delight
Introduction
Gurame Asam Manis, or Sweet and Sour Gurame, is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the flavors of fresh fish, aromatic spices, and a sweet-tangy sauce. The preparation of this dish highlights the tender, flaky texture of Gurame (also known as tilapia or snapper) while infusing it with a rich medley of ingredients that create a symphony of tastes. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gurame fish (or snapper) | 1 whole fish, cleaned and cut |
| Shallots | 3-4 medium-sized, sliced |
| Garlic | 3-4 cloves, minced |
| Red chilies | 2-3, sliced |
| Turmeric | 1 teaspoon, grated or powdered |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, sliced |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2-3 leaves |
| Pineapple | 1 cup, diced |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce or oyster sauce | 2-3 tablespoons |
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by using a mortar and pestle (or a blender) to grind together the shallots, garlic, red chilies, turmeric, and ginger into a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture will serve as the base of your sauce, bringing vibrant flavors to the dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the shallots turn translucent.
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Add Kaffir Lime Leaves: Toss in the kaffir lime leaves, allowing their citrusy aroma to permeate the dish. This step will elevate the flavor profile and introduce a refreshing hint.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the water, followed by salt, sugar, and your choice of soy sauce or oyster sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
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Cook the Fish: Gently place the cleaned Gurame into the pan, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
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Incorporate the Pineapple: Once the fish is nearly done, add the diced pineapple to the pan. Stir to incorporate, allowing the sweetness of the pineapple to blend harmoniously with the savory sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
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Serve: Once everything is cooked to perfection, carefully transfer the Gurame Asam Manis to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining sauce and garnish with additional sliced chilies or lime leaves if desired.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 280 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Conclusion
Gurame Asam Manis is a delightful way to enjoy a succulent fish dish that is not only packed with flavor but also offers a wonderful balance of sweetness and tanginess, thanks to the addition of pineapple. Serve it with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy this culinary gem that showcases the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Whether you are preparing it for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
