Indonesian Mustard Greens with Fish Meatballs and Tofu

Sawi Tahu Bakso Ikan: A Flavorful and Hearty Indonesian Delight

Indulge in the vibrant and comforting flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delightful recipe for Sawi Tahu Bakso Ikan. This dish combines crisp, green leafy vegetables, tender fish meatballs, and creamy tofu in a savory, aromatic sauce. Perfect for a cozy family meal or a flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of green mustard greens (sawi hijau)
• 200g fish meatballs (bakso ikan)
• 200g firm tofu (tahu putih)
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 4 shallots
  • A small piece of shrimp paste (terasi)
  • Salt to taste
  • Sugar to taste
  • 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
  • 2 red curly chilies

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Cut the green mustard greens, tofu, and fish meatballs into bite-sized pieces.
   • Slice the red curly chilies into thin rounds.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a mortar and pestle or food processor, grind the garlic, shallots, and shrimp paste until you have a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a little oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. If the paste starts to stick to the pan, add a small amount of water to loosen it.

4. Add Tofu and Fish Meatballs:

   • Once the paste is aromatic, add the tofu and fish meatballs to the pan. Stir well to coat them with the spice paste.

5. Season the Dish:

   • Season with salt, sugar, and sweet soy sauce. Mix well and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

6. Add the Green Mustard Greens:

   • Add the green mustard greens to the pan and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender.

7. Serve:

   • Transfer the dish to a serving platter and enjoy it hot. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as a flavorful side dish.

This Sawi Tahu Bakso Ikan is a perfect example of the harmonious blend of textures and flavors typical of Indonesian cuisine. The crisp mustard greens provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy tofu and hearty fish meatballs, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce. Enjoy your culinary journey into Indonesian flavors with this delicious and easy-to-make dish!