Acar Kuning Ikan Nila: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Acar Kuning Ikan Nila is a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully combines tender fish with aromatic spices and rich coconut milk, resulting in a vibrant and mouthwatering meal. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore the delightful flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine while enjoying a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Here’s how to create this culinary gem.

Ingredients

For the Fish

• 4 medium-sized Nile perch (ikan nila)

Spice Paste

• 1/2 inch piece of fresh turmeric
• 4 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 5 shallots (bawang merah)
• 1 clove of garlic (bawang putih)
• A pinch of coriander (ketumbar)
• A small piece of ginger (jahe)
• 1/2 pack of thick coconut milk (such as a small triangular pack of Kara coconut milk)

Garnishes

• 1 tomato, sliced lengthwise
• 2 stalks of green onions (daun bawang), sliced lengthwise
• 3 red chilies, halved lengthwise (ensure not to cut all the way through)
• 10 bird’s eye chilies (cabai rawit)
• 1 stalk of lemongrass (serai)
• Water, as needed
• Salt and sugar, to taste
• A pinch of chicken seasoning (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by grinding or blending all the ingredients for the spice paste until smooth. This blend will form the aromatic base of your dish.

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2. Fry the Fish: In a hot pan, fry the Nile perch until cooked through and golden brown. This step not only enhances the flavor of the fish but also creates a lovely texture.

3. Sauté the Spice Paste: In the same pan, add the ground spice paste and sauté until fragrant and fully cooked. This process releases the essential oils and deep flavors of the spices, setting the stage for a delicious dish.

4. Incorporate Coconut Milk: Once the spices are cooked, pour in the thick coconut milk. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and thickens. Add salt, sugar, and chicken seasoning to taste, adjusting the flavors to your preference.

5. Add Garnishes: Next, add all the garnishes, including the sliced tomato, green onions, halved red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and the stalk of lemongrass. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your dish.

6. Combine with the Fish: Gently add the fried fish to the pan, ensuring that the fish is well-coated with the aromatic sauce. Allow the dish to simmer for a few moments, enabling the flavors to meld beautifully.

7. Serve: Once everything is combined and heated through, turn off the heat. Your Acar Kuning Ikan Nila is now ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful dish with steamed rice or as part of a larger feast.

Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure!

This Acar Kuning Ikan Nila is a wonderful way to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Each bite offers a perfect balance of spices and creamy coconut, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Happy cooking and selamat mencoba!