Patin Bumbu Kuning: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Dive into the rich and aromatic world of Indonesian cuisine with Patin Bumbu Kuning, a delectable dish featuring catfish cooked in a vibrant yellow spice paste. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors, showcasing the depth and complexity of traditional Indonesian cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole catfish, cut into 5 pieces
- 300 ml water
- Salt and sugar, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 bunch of Thai basil (kemangi)
- 1 stalk lemongrass (bruised and sliced lengthwise)
For the Spice Paste:
- 6 medium shallots
- 2 medium cloves of garlic
- 10 bird’s eye chilies
- 3 cm fresh turmeric
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by blending the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chilies, fresh turmeric, and pepper into a smooth paste. You can use a blender or a traditional stone mortar and pestle for a more authentic texture.
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Cook the Spice Paste: Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste along with the bruised and sliced lemongrass. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste, about 3-5 minutes.
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Simmer the Base: Pour in the water and stir well. Add salt and sugar to taste. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
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Add the Catfish: Once the base is simmering, carefully add the catfish pieces to the pan. Ensure the fish is well-coated with the spice paste. Continue to cook until the fish is tender and the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
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Finish with Thai Basil: Just before serving, add the Thai basil leaves to the pan. Give it a quick stir to incorporate the basil into the dish. The basil will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the final dish.
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Serve: Once everything is cooked and the flavors are well-balanced, transfer the Patin Bumbu Kuning to a serving dish. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian meal spread.
Enjoy your flavorful Patin Bumbu Kuning, a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia!
