Pesmol Ikan Mas (Spiced Carp)
A Delightful Indonesian Dish
Pesmol Ikan Mas is a traditional Indonesian recipe that showcases the delicious flavors of spiced carp cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce. This dish is not only visually appealing but also tantalizing to the taste buds, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to create this delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carp fish (ikan mas) | 5 whole fish |
| Coconut milk (santan kara) | 1 cup |
| Red onions (bawang merah) | 3 medium-sized |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 4 cloves |
| Red chilies (cabe merah) | 2-3, adjust to taste |
| Turmeric (kunyit) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt (garam) | To taste |
| Sugar (gula) | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander seeds (ketumbar) | 1 tablespoon |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 2-3, toasted |
| Water (air) | As needed |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 2 leaves |
| Lemongrass (sereh) | 1 stalk |
| Galangal (lengkuas) | 1 piece (about 1 inch) |
| For Garnish: | |
| Whole bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit utuh) | As needed |
| Thai basil (kemangi) | A handful |
| Carrots (wortel) | 1 medium, cut into matchsticks |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Instructions
-
Clean the Fish:
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the carp fish, removing any scales and internal organs. Rinse them under cold running water and set aside to drain. -
Prepare the Spice Paste:
In a blender or food processor, combine the red chilies, red onions, garlic, turmeric, coriander seeds, and toasted candlenuts. Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth paste. Add a splash of water if necessary to help with blending. -
Sauté the Spice Mixture:
In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This step helps to release the essential oils and deepen the flavors of the spices. -
Add Coconut Milk and Water:
Once the spice mixture is aromatic, add enough water to the skillet to create a sauce base. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Season with salt and sugar to taste. -
Cook the Fish:
Carefully add the cleaned carp to the skillet. Allow the fish to simmer in the sauce, gently spooning the sauce over the top to ensure even cooking. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the flavors have melded. -
Incorporate Aromatics:
After the fish is cooked, add the bay leaves, lemongrass, and galangal to the pot. These aromatics will infuse additional flavor into the dish. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes. -
Prepare for Serving:
Before serving, stir in the whole bird’s eye chilies, Thai basil, and carrot matchsticks. These fresh ingredients add color and a delightful crunch to the dish. -
Serve:
Plate the Pesmol Ikan Mas with a generous scoop of the sauce poured over the top. This dish is best enjoyed with steaming hot white rice, allowing the fragrant coconut sauce to soak into the grains.
Enjoy!
Pesmol Ikan Mas is a wonderful representation of Indonesian cuisine, with its harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients. This dish not only showcases the beauty of carp but also emphasizes the richness of coconut milk, making it a truly memorable meal. Enjoy your culinary journey with this exquisite recipe, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
Tips
- Substitutions: If you cannot find carp, feel free to use other types of fish such as tilapia or snapper.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: For those who prefer milder flavors, reduce the number of red chilies or remove the seeds to lessen the heat.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance, as the flavors deepen and improve when allowed to sit overnight in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
With its captivating flavors and satisfying textures, Pesmol Ikan Mas is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into this delicious recipe and let the aromatic spices take you on an unforgettable culinary adventure!
