Indonesian Yellow Catfish Stew (Patin Bumbu Kuning)

Patin Bumbu Kuning: A Delicious Indonesian Catfish Dish

Ingredients:

• 300 grams Patin fish (catfish)
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 2 large red chilies
  • 6 shallots
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 candlenut (kemiri)
  • 1 small piece of turmeric (about 1-inch)
• Additional Ingredients:
  • 6 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit), sliced
  • 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
  • 1 stalk lemongrass (sereh), bruised
  • 1 piece galangal (lengkuas), bruised
  • 1 tablespoon Royco seasoning or other bouillon powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Cooking oil, for sautéing
  • Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Using a blender or food processor, grind the red chilies, shallots, garlic, candlenut, and turmeric into a smooth paste. If you prefer a finer texture, add a little oil to help blend the ingredients.

2. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

3. Add Aromatics:

   • Stir in the bruised lemongrass stalk and bay leaves. Continue to sauté for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.

4. Cook the Fish:

   • Gently place the patin fish pieces into the pan. Pour in enough water to cover the fish, and add the Royco seasoning, ground black pepper, sugar, and salt. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer:

   • Reduce the heat to low and allow the fish to simmer gently. Cook until the fish is cooked through and tender, about 15-20 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Add Final Touches:

   • Add the sliced bird’s eye chilies to the pan for an extra kick of heat. Let the dish simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.

7. Serve:

   • Transfer the fish and sauce to a serving dish. Enjoy the Patin Bumbu Kuning with steaming hot rice.

8. Tips:

   • This dish is best enjoyed hot, as the flavors meld beautifully when served immediately. For an authentic Indonesian experience, pair it with steamed jasmine rice and your favorite vegetable side dishes.

Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic Patin Bumbu Kuning, a true delight of Indonesian cuisine!