Savory Indonesian Otak-Otak Bandeng: Steamed Fish Delicacy with Spicy Blend

Otak-Otak Bandeng: A Savory Indonesian Fish Delight

Otak-otak Bandeng is a traditional Indonesian delicacy made with the delicious flesh of the bandeng (milkfish), which is skillfully blended with a medley of spices and then steamed to perfection. This dish is often enjoyed as an appetizer or a snack, and its unique flavors and textures are sure to impress anyone who tastes it. Here’s how to prepare this delightful recipe.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:
   Start by extracting the flesh of the bandeng fish from its skin. For this, a long spoon works wonderfully; simply scrape the flesh out from inside the skin. Once you have removed all the flesh, place it in the refrigerator for about 3 minutes. This step helps firm up the fish meat, making it easier to handle.

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2. Make the Spice Paste:
   While the fish is chilling, prepare the spice paste by blending together the candlenuts, shallots, garlic, and curly chilies until smooth. Transfer this mixture to a bowl and set it aside.

3. Combine Ingredients:
   Next, take the chilled fish flesh and blend it until it is finely minced. Add the spice paste you prepared earlier to the fish, along with one egg, the seasoning powder (Masako), and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.

4. Stuff the Fish Skin:
   Carefully stuff the seasoned fish mixture back into the prepared fish skin, ensuring that each piece is filled completely and evenly.

5. Steam the Fish:
   Once all the fish skins are stuffed, place them in a steamer. Steam the stuffed fish for approximately 20-25 minutes, adjusting the cooking time based on the size of your steamer and the strength of your heat source. The fish is done when it becomes firm and cooked through.

6. Fry and Serve:
   After steaming, remove the fish from the steamer and slice it into manageable pieces. Prepare a bowl with a beaten egg for coating. Dip each piece of the steamed fish into the egg mixture and fry them in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy. This will enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

7. Presentation:
   Once fried, place the otak-otak bandeng on a serving platter and enjoy them while hot. They can be served as a delightful appetizer or a snack at any gathering.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Enjoy Your Cooking Experience!
This Otak-Otak Bandeng recipe not only highlights the wonderful flavors of Indonesian cuisine but also provides a great way to appreciate the versatility of bandeng fish. Share this delightful dish with family and friends, and relish the compliments that will surely come your way. Happy cooking!