Gulai Ikan Kakap Merah khas Padang: A Rich and Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Gulai Ikan Kakap Merah, a traditional dish from Padang, Indonesia, is renowned for its rich, aromatic flavors and luscious coconut sauce. This exquisite recipe combines the tender meat of red snapper with a medley of spices and herbs, creating a symphony of tastes that is sure to tantalize your palate. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful family meal, this dish embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus)

Additional Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by blending the shallots, garlic, ginger, and turmeric into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.

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2. Sauté the Spices: In a large pot or pan, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste along with the ground red chili, turmeric leaves, kaffir lime leaves, salam leaves, lemongrass, and tamarind. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until fragrant.

3. Add Coconut Milk: Gradually pour in the diluted coconut milk (using 500 ml of water to thin it out), stirring well. Allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes.

4. Incorporate the Greens: Toss in the ruku ruku leaves and the bird’s eye chilies, mixing them into the sauce.

5. Cook the Fish and Tempe: Gently place the red snapper pieces and tempe into the pot. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

6. Finish with Remaining Coconut Milk: After the fish is cooked through, pour in the remaining thick coconut milk. Stir to combine, and bring the dish back to a gentle boil.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Once heated through, turn off the heat. Serve the Gulai Ikan Kakap Merah hot, accompanied by steamed rice, and enjoy the explosion of flavors that this traditional Padang dish offers.

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)

This Gulai Ikan Kakap Merah is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Indonesian flavors, perfect for gatherings or a comforting family dinner. Enjoy the robust taste and inviting aroma of this exquisite dish, and share the love of cooking with family and friends!