Indonesian Spiced Tilapia with Basil (Ikan Nila Bumbu Kuning Kemangi)

Ikan Nila Bumbu Kuning Kemangi: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Delight

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg Nile tilapia (or substitute with another fish of your choice)
• 1 bunch of basil leaves (kemangi), picked and washed
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, crushed
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, crushed
• 1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised (use the base part)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• Cooking oil, as needed
• Water, as needed
• Seasoning (optional, not used in this recipe)

For the Spice Paste:

• 6 cloves of red onions
• 6 cloves of garlic
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
• 2 candlenuts
• 1/2 large tomato
• 4 red chilies
• Optional: fresh bird’s eye chilies to taste
• Sugar, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Clean the Nile tilapia thoroughly and pat dry.
   • Rub the fish with salt and let it sit for a few minutes.
   • Heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until cooked through and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the red onions, garlic, turmeric, candlenuts, tomato, and red chilies. Blend until smooth.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add the blended spice paste, ginger, galangal, lemongrass, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

4. Simmer and Flavor:

   • Pour in enough water to create a sauce, and bring to a boil. Adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar to taste.
   • Add the fried fish to the pan. Gently turn the fish to coat it with the spice mixture.

5. Add Basil:

   • Toss in the basil leaves and stir gently, ensuring the leaves are evenly distributed and the flavors meld.

6. Finish Cooking:

   • Allow the fish to simmer in the sauce until the flavors are absorbed and the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Serve:

   • Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this aromatic and vibrant dish with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian meal.

This Ikan Nila Bumbu Kuning Kemangi recipe combines the rich flavors of Indonesian spices with the freshness of basil, creating a delightful and savory fish dish that’s perfect for any occasion.