Sop Ikan Patin: A Deliciously Flavorful Indonesian Catfish Soup
Sop Ikan Patin is a delightful Indonesian soup featuring tender catfish, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables that create a comforting and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe showcases the unique flavors of the region, bringing together fresh ingredients and a medley of spices that elevate this soup to a family favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan Patin (Catfish) | 1/2 kg |
| Shallots | 4 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
| Ginger | a small piece |
| Turmeric | a small piece |
| Galangal | a small piece |
| Bay Leaves | a few leaves |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk, bruised |
| Kaffir Lime Leaves | a few leaves |
| Green Onions | 2, chopped |
| Celery | 1 stalk, chopped |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Carrot | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar | to taste |
| Bouillon Powder | to taste |
| Lime Juice | from 1 lime |
Instructions
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Preparation of the Fish: Begin by cleaning the catfish thoroughly, then rub it with salt and the juice of one lime. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to remove any fishy smell.
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Chopping the Aromatics: Thinly slice the shallots and garlic. These will form the aromatic base of your soup.
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Sautéing the Aromatics: In a pot, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the shallots and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent. Add the bay leaves, bruised lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, ginger, turmeric, and galangal. Stir-fry for a few minutes to release the essential oils and flavors.
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Adding Liquid: Pour in enough water to cover the sautéed spices, and bring it to a boil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
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Seasoning the Broth: Add sugar, salt, and bouillon powder to the pot. Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile.
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Incorporating Vegetables: Add the chopped green onions, celery, and any desired amount of carrots to the pot, letting them cook until slightly tender.
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Cooking the Catfish and Tomato: Gently place the marinated catfish into the simmering broth, followed by the chopped tomato. Allow the soup to cook until the fish is fully cooked through and flaky.
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Final Adjustments: Taste the soup once more, adjusting seasoning with salt or lime juice as needed.
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Serving: Once cooked, serve the Sop Ikan Patin hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions or celery for a fresh touch. This soup pairs beautifully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own for a light yet satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 180 |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Total Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Enjoy the warmth and unique flavors of Sop Ikan Patin, a dish that embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire!
