Indonesian Kencur-Spiced Barramundi in Coconut Sauce

Bawal Bumbu Kencur: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Dish

Ingredients:

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• 500 grams of barramundi (ikan bawal)
• 1 lime (jeruk nipis)
• Salt, to taste
• Spice Paste:
  • 8 shallots (bawang merah)
  • 4 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
  • 4 candlenuts (kemiri)
  • 3 segments of kencur (a type of ginger)
  • 2 segments of ginger (jahe)
  • A pinch of shrimp paste (terasi)
• Additional Ingredients:
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
  • 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
  • 2 stalks of lemongrass (serai)
  • Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit), to taste
  • 75 ml of coconut milk (santan kara)
  • 250 ml of water
  • Sugar, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:
   Begin by cleaning the barramundi thoroughly. Rub it with lime juice and salt, allowing it to marinate for a few minutes. Heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until it is almost cooked through. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   In a food processor or mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, kencur, ginger, and shrimp paste into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:
   Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sauté until it becomes aromatic and golden brown.

4. Create the Sauce:
   Add the water to the pan with the spice paste, stirring to combine. Incorporate the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, lemongrass, and bird’s eye chilies. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add Coconut Milk:
   Stir in the coconut milk and let the sauce cook until it slightly reduces and thickens. Season with sugar and additional salt, adjusting to taste.

6. Combine and Serve:
   Gently place the fried fish back into the pan, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Cook for a few more minutes, ensuring the fish is well-coated with the rich, aromatic sauce.

7. Final Adjustments:
   Taste the sauce and make any final adjustments to the seasoning if needed. Once the fish is well-coated and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat.

8. Serve:
   Transfer the fish to a serving plate, pouring the sauce over the top. Enjoy this delightful Indonesian dish with steamed rice or your preferred side.

This recipe for Bawal Bumbu Kencur brings together a harmonious blend of spices and coconut milk to create a flavorful, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.