Abon Lele: Indonesian Catfish Floss Recipe
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Abon Lele, a delightful Indonesian dish featuring shredded catfish infused with aromatic spices. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a delectable treat that can be enjoyed on warm rice or as a topping for porridge, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Catfish Floss
- 500 grams catfish (approximately 6 fish)
- 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal
- 1 stalk lemongrass
- 1 piece tamarind (asam)
- Oil for frying
Spice Paste (to be blended)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 candlenuts (kemiri)
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds (ketumbar)
- 3 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
- 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric (kunyit)
- Salt and sugar to taste
- Flavor enhancer (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Catfish
Begin by boiling the catfish in a pot of water until the flesh is tender. Once cooked, reserve the broth for later use. Using a spoon, carefully scrape the fish meat from the bones, ensuring all bones are removed. Blend the catfish meat with a bit of the reserved broth until smooth, then set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Spice Paste
In a heated pan, add a splash of oil and sauté the blended spice paste until fragrant. This step is crucial for unlocking the flavors. Add the sliced galangal, lemongrass, and tamarind, stirring them into the mix. Then, incorporate the blended catfish, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Pour in the remaining broth and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer until the liquid has evaporated, and the spices are fully absorbed by the catfish, creating a rich, flavorful base.
Step 4: Fry the Floss
In a separate frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Pour in the seasoned catfish mixture, spreading it evenly. Fry until the mixture dries out and becomes crispy, ensuring a delightful texture. Once cooked, transfer the floss onto rice paper or brown paper to absorb excess oil. Let it cool completely.
Step 5: Storage
Store the cooled Abon Lele in an airtight container, such as a jar. This homemade catfish floss is perfect for serving with warm rice or as a flavorful topping for baby porridge (MPASI).
Serving Suggestions
Abon Lele pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, providing a protein-packed addition to your meal. It can also be enjoyed as a savory snack or a comforting side dish for a variety of Indonesian dishes. Embrace this culinary treasure and share it with loved ones for a memorable dining experience!
Enjoy your homemade Abon Lele and savor the taste of traditional Indonesian cuisine right at home!
