Gulai Patin Buncis: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Gulai Patin Buncis is a delightful Indonesian dish that combines the tender, rich flavor of patin fish with vibrant green beans and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore the deep flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
To create this sumptuous Gulai Patin Buncis, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole patin fish (cleaned and cut into pieces)
- A handful of green beans (buncis), trimmed and cut
- 1 bunch of basil leaves (kemangi)
- 3 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
- 6 shallots (bawang merah)
- A small piece of ginger (jahe), bruised
- A small piece of galangal (lengkuas), bruised
- 1 stalk of lemongrass (serai), smashed
- A small piece of turmeric (kunyit)
- 2 leaves of bay leaves (daun salam)
- 2 leaves of lime leaves (daun jeruk)
- 6 green chili peppers (cabe merah hijau)
- 1 teaspoon of coriander (ketumbar)
- 1.5 teaspoons of salt (garam)
- 2 tablespoons of grated palm sugar (gula merah)
- 1 packet of instant coconut milk (Kara)
- 1 ripe tomato (tomat merah), chopped
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to prepare Gulai Patin Buncis that is both flavorful and satisfying:
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning and cutting the patin fish into several pieces. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld later.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar, combine the coriander, shallots, garlic, and turmeric, and blend or pound them into a smooth paste. This aromatic mix will be the backbone of your dish.
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Sauté the Spices: In a large pot or wok, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste and sauté until fragrant, allowing the spices to release their essential oils.
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Add Aromatics: To the sautéed paste, add the bay leaves, lime leaves, smashed lemongrass, ginger, galangal, and whole chili peppers. This will infuse the oil with an incredible aroma.
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Introduce Liquids: Pour in a little water to the sautéed mixture, allowing the spices to cook together. This step helps create a flavorful base for your gulai.
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Incorporate Green Beans: Add the cut green beans to the pot, allowing them to cook slightly before adding the fish.
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Add the Patin Fish: Carefully place the pieces of patin fish into the pot. Season with salt and palm sugar, ensuring the fish is coated well in the flavorful mixture.
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Cook the Fish: Once the patin is fully cooked (it should be tender and opaque), pour in the instant coconut milk and stir gently to combine. The coconut milk adds a rich creaminess that elevates the dish.
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Adjust the Flavor: Taste the gulai and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is the time to ensure that the balance of flavors is just right.
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Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Finally, add the chopped ripe tomato and basil leaves to the pot. These fresh ingredients will brighten the dish and add a lovely finish.
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Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, turn off the stove. Serve your Gulai Patin Buncis hot with steamed rice, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Indonesian classic.
Conclusion
Gulai Patin Buncis is not just a dish; it’s an experience that showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine. With its combination of tender fish, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s a meal that will delight your senses and warm your heart. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🌟
