Ikan Mas Bumbu Kuning: A Flavorful Journey of Indonesian Cuisine
Ikan mas bumbu kuning, or yellow-spiced carp, is a cherished dish in Indonesian cuisine that beautifully combines fresh fish with aromatic spices, creating a delightful balance of flavors that dances on the palate. This recipe is not only a celebration of local ingredients but also a testament to the warmth of Indonesian culinary traditions. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure and learn how to create this delectable dish, perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
The following table outlines the ingredients required to create this aromatic dish:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium-sized carp (ikan mas) | 2 pieces |
| Tomatoes (sliced) | 1½ pieces |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 4 pieces |
| Lemongrass (serai) | 3 stalks |
| Spice Paste | |
| Red shallots (bawang merah) | 5 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit merah) | 5 pieces |
| Turmeric (kunyit) | 2 pieces (2 inches) |
| Ginger (jahe) | 1 piece (1 inch) |
| Coriander (ketumbar) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Additional Ingredients | |
| White sugar | To taste |
| Large red chilies (cabe merah) | 5 pieces (sliced thinly) |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of the dish helps appreciate its health benefits:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Instructions
Follow the step-by-step guide below to create your ikan mas bumbu kuning, bringing the essence of Indonesian cuisine into your kitchen.
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Preparation of the Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the medium-sized carp under cold water, ensuring all scales and entrails are removed. Once cleaned, season the fish generously with salt, allowing it to absorb the flavor.
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Frying the Fish: In a frying pan, heat a sufficient amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the seasoned fish into the pan. Fry the fish until it turns a beautiful golden yellow color, which usually takes about 4–5 minutes per side. Once done, carefully remove the fish from the pan and place it on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Making the Spice Paste: While the fish is frying, prepare the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the red shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chilies, turmeric, ginger, and coriander. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Sautéing the Spices: In the same pan used for frying the fish, add a bit more oil if necessary and heat it over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the pan, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant, which should take around 3–4 minutes.
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Flavoring the Base: Once the spice paste is aromatic, add the bay leaves and lemongrass, continuing to sauté for another 2 minutes. At this point, add a splash of white sugar to balance the flavors, followed by a pinch of salt. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Bringing It All Together: Carefully place the fried fish back into the pan, gently flipping it to coat in the spice mixture. Add a small amount of water, just enough to create a light sauce. Then, incorporate the sliced tomatoes and the thinly sliced large red chilies. Allow the dish to simmer on low heat for about 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serving: After simmering, your ikan mas bumbu kuning is ready to be served! Transfer the dish onto a large serving platter, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice and a side of sautéed greens, making for a satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
Ikan mas bumbu kuning is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings the rich flavors of Indonesia right to your dining table. This recipe, with its vibrant spices and fresh ingredients, is bound to impress your family and friends. So gather your loved ones, serve this delightful dish, and create memories filled with love and laughter around the dinner table. Enjoy your culinary journey into Indonesian cuisine!
