Pesmol Ikan Mujaer: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Dish
Ingredients:
- 4 whole mujaer fish (cleaned)
- 2 leaves of salam (Indonesian bay leaves)
- 1 piece of galangal, smashed
- 1 stalk of lemongrass, smashed
- 5-10 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Palm sugar, to taste
- White sugar (optional)
- Cooking oil, for frying and sautéing
- 500 ml coconut milk (made from ½ packet of instant coconut milk mixed with 500 ml water)
Spice Paste:
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 12 shallots
- 7 curly red chilies
- 3 candlenuts
- 1 piece of turmeric
- 1 piece of ginger
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fish:
Start by thoroughly cleaning the mujaer fish to remove any impurities. Fry the fish in hot oil until they are golden brown, but be careful not to overcook them to the point of dryness. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil. -
Sauté the Spice Paste:
In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste along with the whole bird’s eye chilies, salam leaves, lemongrass, and galangal. Sauté until the mixture is fragrant and the aromas start to fill your kitchen. -
Add the Coconut Milk:
Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and palm sugar. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning to your liking; this is your chance to create a balance of savory and sweet. -
Cook the Fish:
Once the coconut milk mixture is boiling, carefully add the fried mujaer fish. Let them simmer in the sauce, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish for about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer a more generous sauce, you can add more coconut milk or water to your desired consistency. -
Serve:
Once the fish is cooked and infused with the delicious spices, remove from heat. Serve the Pesmol Ikan Mujaer hot alongside steaming rice, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Enjoy this traditional dish that perfectly showcases the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia.
Tips for the Best Pesmol Ikan Mujaer:
- For an extra kick, adjust the number of bird’s eye chilies according to your spice preference.
- Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or fried shallots for added texture and flavor.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the rich coconut sauce.
Experience the Essence of Indonesia
With its aromatic spices and rich coconut sauce, Pesmol Ikan Mujaer is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Indonesia right to your dining table. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Enjoy the journey of flavors with every mouthful!
