Sop Ikan Patin: A Delicious Indonesian Catfish Soup
Ingredients
- Fish: 500 grams of Ikan Patin (catfish)
- Vegetables:
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks of green onions, chopped
- Fresh celery leaves
- 3 stalks of kemangi (Thai basil)
- Spices:
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 3 shallots
- 1 stalk of lemongrass
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 slice of turmeric
- 1 slice of ginger
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Citrus:
- 2 lemons (for juice)
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the Ikan Patin under running water. Once cleaned, rub the fish with lemon juice, allowing it to marinate for about 5 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps eliminate any fishy odor. After marinating, rinse the fish again until it is completely clean.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, combine the garlic, shallots, lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, and nutmeg. Pound these ingredients into a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture will be the foundation of your soup.
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Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, allowing the flavors to bloom and infuse the oil.
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Build the Soup Base: Pour in sufficient water to create a broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the marinated Ikan Patin and sliced carrots to the pot. Allow the soup to cook until the fish is tender and the carrots have softened slightly.
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Season to Taste: Once the fish and vegetables are cooked, season the soup with salt, sugar, and any preferred seasoning to enhance the flavor. Take a moment to taste the broth, adjusting the seasonings as necessary.
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Add the Greens: Finally, incorporate the chopped green onions, fresh celery leaves, and kemangi. Cook until the greens are wilted but still vibrant, preserving their freshness.
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Serve: Remove the pot from heat, and your Sop Ikan Patin is ready to be served. Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy this delightful, aromatic dish that showcases the beautiful flavors of Indonesia.
Enjoy Your Meal!
This Sop Ikan Patin is not only nutritious but also a comforting dish that brings warmth to your dining table. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe will surely impress your loved ones with its rich flavors and fragrant aromas.