Pempek Tengiri: A Deliciously Authentic Indonesian Fish Cake
Pempek tengiri is a traditional Indonesian fish cake made from mackerel, a dish beloved for its delightful texture and flavor. This recipe will guide you through creating this delicious snack that can be enjoyed boiled or fried, making it a versatile addition to any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mackerel fish (daging tengiri) | 300 grams |
| Ice water | 150 ml |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | Β½ teaspoon |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Sago flour (tepung sagu) | 250 grams |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish Mixture
Start by grinding the mackerel fish until it reaches a fine consistency. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground fish with the minced garlic. Mix in the salt and sugar to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Incorporate Water
Gradually add the ice water to the fish mixture, stirring continuously. This step helps to achieve a smooth and cohesive texture. Be careful to add the water slowly to ensure the mixture does not become too watery.
Step 3: Add Sago Flour
Next, sprinkle the sago flour into the fish mixture bit by bit. This step is crucial as the sago flour helps bind the ingredients together. The mixture will be sticky; this is normal! Make sure to reserve some sago flour for dusting when shaping the pempek.
Step 4: Shape the Pempek
Dust your hands with the reserved sago flour to prevent sticking, and shape the mixture into small oval or round cakes.
Step 5: Boil the Pempek
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently drop the shaped pempek into the boiling water. Cook them until they float, which indicates they are nearly done. Allow them to boil for an additional 10 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pempek from the pot and drain them on a plate. They can be enjoyed immediately or fried until golden brown for an extra crispy texture.
Tips:
- For an enhanced flavor, consider serving your pempek with a tangy vinegar dipping sauce or a spicy chili sauce.
- Experiment with different shapes and sizes to find your perfect pempek!
Enjoy your homemade pempek tengiri, a delightful treat that brings the flavors of Indonesia right to your kitchen. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these fish cakes are sure to impress your family and friends!
