Indonesian Fish Cake Soup with Savory Broth and Fresh Vegetables

Tekwan Ikan Tunul Mama CeMunk: A Delightful Indonesian Soup

Ingredients:

• For the Tekwan Balls:
  • 250 grams of minced ikan tunul (fish)
  • 250 grams of tapioca flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 3 sachets of beef seasoning (Royco)
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • 3 teaspoons of shrimp powder (bubuk rebon)
• For the Broth:
  • 1 piece of ginger
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • 3 sachets of beef seasoning (Royco)
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of shrimp powder (bubuk rebon)
• For the Vegetables:
  • 250 grams of cooked black fungus mushrooms (jamur kuping)
  • 2 cucumbers, sliced thinly
  • 2 pieces of bengkoang (jicama), cut into long strips
  • 1 pack of corn vermicelli (bihun jagung), cooked
  • Some boiled chili peppers (for sambal), to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tekwan Balls:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the minced ikan tunul (fish), tapioca flour, egg, black pepper, salt, beef seasoning, vegetable oil, minced garlic, and shrimp powder.
   • Knead the mixture until it becomes smooth and well-combined.

2. Cook the Tekwan Balls:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
   • Form the mixture into small balls, using your hands or a spoon to shape them.
   • Gently drop the balls into the boiling water.
   • Cook until the tekwan balls float to the surface, indicating they are done. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

3. Prepare the Broth:

   • Blend the garlic and ginger together until smooth.
   • Add the blended mixture to a pot of water and bring to a boil.
   • Stir in the beef seasoning, black pepper, shrimp powder, and salt.
   • Simmer until the flavors meld and the broth reaches a savory taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble the Dish:

   • In serving bowls, arrange the cooked vegetables (black fungus mushrooms, cucumber slices, and jicama strips).
   • Add the cooked corn vermicelli and tekwan balls.
   • Pour the hot broth over the ingredients in each bowl.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with boiled chili peppers if desired, for added heat.
   • Serve the tekwan hot, perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day.

Enjoy this traditional Indonesian soup with its delicate fish balls and flavorful broth, accompanied by a medley of fresh vegetables. It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dining experience.