Fragrant Indonesian Tilapia in Yellow Broth (Ikan Nila Kuah Kuning)
Ikan Nila Kuah Kuning: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Dish
Ikan Nila Kuah Kuning is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the delicate flavors of tilapia fish simmered in a fragrant yellow broth, infused with aromatic herbs and spices. This recipe will guide you through the preparation of this delightful dish, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tilapia fish (ikan nila) | 2 medium-sized fish |
| Lime juice | To taste (for marinating) |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 6 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 2 cloves |
| Turmeric (kunyit), roasted | 1 finger-length piece |
| Tomato | 1, cut into quarters |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk purut) | 3 leaves |
| Bay leaf (daun salam) | 1 leaf |
| Galangal (lengkuas), smashed | 1 piece |
| Lemongrass (sereh), white part only | 1 stalk |
| Chili peppers (cabe) | To taste (whole) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Basil leaves (kemangi) | A handful |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 220 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish:
- Begin by cleaning the tilapia fish thoroughly. Rub the fish with lime juice, allowing it to marinate briefly. This step helps to reduce any fishy odor, giving you a fresh, vibrant flavor.
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Fry the Fish:
- In a frying pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Gently fry the fish until it is lightly golden, being careful not to cook it all the way through. This process will give the fish a wonderful texture and add depth to the final dish.
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Blend the Spice Mixture:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, and roasted turmeric. Blend until smooth to create a fragrant spice paste that will form the base of your broth.
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Cook the Spice Paste:
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until the aroma fills the kitchen, approximately 3-5 minutes.
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Prepare the Broth:
- Pour enough water into the pot to cover the fish and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the smashed galangal, sliced lemongrass, bay leaf, and kaffir lime leaves. Allow the flavors to meld together for about 10 minutes.
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Add the Fish:
- Carefully place the fried fish into the simmering broth. Add salt, black pepper, and whole chili peppers to taste. Allow the fish to cook through for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring it absorbs all the delicious flavors.
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Final Touches:
- Just before serving, add the quartered tomato and basil leaves to the pot. Stir gently and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as necessary.
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Serve:
- Once cooked, ladle the fish and broth into bowls, garnishing with additional basil if desired. This dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice, allowing you to savor every drop of the fragrant broth.
Ikan Nila Kuah Kuning is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine. The combination of herbs, spices, and tender fish creates a dish that is both comforting and refreshing, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
