Ikan Nila Kuah: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Soup

Ingredients

For the Fish

• 2 whole Nile tilapia fish
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt, to taste

Spice Paste

• 5 shallots
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2 pieces of turmeric (lightly charred)
• 4 large red chilies (3 blended, 1 sliced)
• 2 bird’s eye chilies (to taste)
• 1 piece of ginger
• 3 candlenuts (toasted)

Additional Ingredients

• 1 piece of galangal (smashed)
• 1 stalk of lemongrass (smashed)
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 small tomatoes (chopped)
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as needed
• Cooking oil, for frying
• Seasoning (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:
   Begin by cutting each tilapia into two pieces. Squeeze lime juice over the fish and sprinkle with salt, allowing them to marinate for about 10 minutes. Afterward, rinse the fish thoroughly under running water to remove any excess salt.

2. Make the Spice Paste:
   In a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, charred turmeric, blended red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, ginger, and toasted candlenuts. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

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3. Sauté the Spices:
   In a pan, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant. Next, incorporate the additional spices: smashed galangal, lemongrass, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves, along with the sliced red chili. Stir everything together.

4. Add Water and Fish:
   Pour in enough water to cover the fish. Gently add the marinated tilapia pieces into the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged.

5. Simmer the Dish:
   Stir the pot carefully to avoid breaking the fish. Once the fish is partially cooked, add the chopped tomatoes and season with salt. Allow the soup to simmer until the fish is thoroughly cooked and tender.

6. Taste and Adjust:
   Check the doneness of the fish and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

7. Serve:
   Your Ikan Nila Kuah is now ready to be served. Enjoy this flavorful Indonesian fish soup with steamed rice for a truly delightful meal.

Enjoy Your Cooking Journey!

This comforting dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making every meal a memorable experience filled with love and flavor.