Gindara Fish Soup with Thai Basil and Starfruit

Gindara Fish Soup (Sup Bening Ikan Gindara)

Experience the delicate flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this Gindara Fish Soup, or “Sup Bening Ikan Gindara.” This refreshing and aromatic soup is highlighted by tender pieces of Gindara fish, savory fish balls, and a fragrant blend of herbs and spices. Ideal for a light meal or a comforting starter, this recipe combines simplicity with vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 800 ml water
• 1-2 fillets of Gindara fish (or any firm white fish, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 5-6 fish balls (cut into preferred size)
• 3 stalks lemongrass (lightly bruised)
• 1 bunch of Thai basil (Kemangi)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1.5-inch piece of ginger (sliced)
• 3 starfruit (Belimbing Sayur, sliced)
• 6 kaffir lime leaves (torn into pieces)
• Salt (to taste)
• Mushroom seasoning (Kaldu Jamur, to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:
   In a large pot, bring 800 ml of water to a boil. Add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, bruised lemongrass, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Allow the mixture to simmer until the aromas are well developed.

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2. Cook the Fish and Fish Balls:
   Once the broth is fragrant, gently add the Gindara fish fillets and fish balls to the pot. Season with salt and mushroom seasoning to taste. Stir and cook until the fish is cooked through and the fish balls are tender.

3. Add the Vegetables and Herbs:
   When the fish balls are tender, introduce the sliced starfruit and Thai basil leaves to the soup. Be careful not to overcook the basil; it should remain vibrant and slightly fresh. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the soup is too acidic from the starfruit, add a small amount of water to balance the flavors.

4. Serve:
   Once the starfruit is tender and the basil is slightly wilted, turn off the heat. Serve the soup immediately while it’s hot and fragrant.

This Gindara Fish Soup is a delightful dish that combines the umami of the fish and fish balls with the aromatic notes of lemongrass, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves, offering a refreshing and wholesome experience. Enjoy it as a light meal or a flavorful appetizer to start your meal.