Savory Ikan Pesmol Nila: Aromatic Indonesian Tilapia Delight

Ikan Pesmol Nila: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Ikan Pesmol Nila is a traditional Indonesian dish that combines the tender flavors of Nile tilapia with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. This dish is not only delightful to the palate but also a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here’s how to create this savory masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparation of the Fish: Start by cleaning the Nile tilapia thoroughly. Soak the fish in a mixture of salt and a little vinegar to reduce any fishy smell; alternatively, you can use lime juice for this purpose. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes.

   Related Articles

   • 
     Crispy Tuna Oat Bites with Zesty Lime Dip
   • 
     Spicy Indonesian Tenggiri Rica Rica: A Flavorful Fish Delight
   • 
     Zesty Tom Yum Seafood Soup with Oyster Mushrooms
   • 
     Aromatic Indonesian Tuna Head Stew (Woku Kepala Tongkol)

2. Frying the Fish: Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully fry the marinated fish until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

3. Making the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine shallots, garlic, candlenuts, coriander seeds, and turmeric. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

4. Cooking the Sauce: In the same pan used for frying the fish, add a bit more oil if necessary. Sauté the blended spice paste along with chopped red chili until it becomes fragrant. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

5. Adding the Liquids: Pour in enough water to create a sauce that matches your preference; allow it to simmer until it begins to bubble gently.

6. Incorporating the Vegetables: Once the sauce is bubbling, add the sliced green onions and chopped tomato to the pan. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Final Assembly: Carefully place the fried fish into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, ensuring the fish absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce while the liquid reduces slightly.

8. Serving: Your Ikan Pesmol Nila is now ready to be served! Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy this aromatic dish with steamed rice or your choice of side.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Conclusion

Ikan Pesmol Nila is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and aromas. Enjoy your cooking journey with this delightful recipe!