Savory Pindang Patin: Indonesian Spicy Fish Stew

Pindang Patin: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Stew

Pindang Patin is a flavorful Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the rich taste of patin fish with a medley of aromatic spices and herbs. This recipe guides you through the steps to create a warm and comforting stew that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 whole patin fish, cleaned and cut into pieces
• 2-3 bird’s eye chilies (cabai rawit) and 1-2 red chilies
• 3 shallots and 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon of shrimp paste (terasi)
• Tamarind (asam) to taste
• Sugar, salt, and seasoning powder (Sasa) to taste
• 1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised
• 1 piece of galangal (lengkuas), bruised
• 1 piece of turmeric (kunyit), to taste
• 1 piece of ginger, to taste
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• A handful of basil leaves (kemangi) and chopped green onions (daun bawang)
• 1 medium-sized tomato, chopped

Steps

1. Prepare the Fish: Start by cleaning the patin fish thoroughly, then cut it into several pieces. Slice the fish head into two for better cooking.

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2. Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar, combine the bird’s eye chilies, red chilies, shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and chopped tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

3. Bruise the Aromatics: Lightly bruise the lemongrass and galangal to release their flavors.

4. Cook the Broth: In a pot, bring water to a boil for the broth. Add the ground spice paste along with the bruised lemongrass and galangal. Season with sugar, salt, tamarind, and seasoning powder to taste.

5. Add the Fish: Once the broth is boiling, gently add the fish pieces. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.

6. Finish with Fresh Herbs: After approximately 10 minutes, add the basil leaves and chopped green onions. Stir briefly to combine, then remove the pot from heat.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Pindang Patin into bowls and savor the delightful flavors of this aromatic stew. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Pindang Patin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The fish provides a healthy source of protein, while the assortment of vegetables and herbs enriches the dish with vitamins and antioxidants. This dish is perfect for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal.

With its vibrant flavors and comforting essence, Pindang Patin is sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy the culinary journey and the delightful aromas that fill your kitchen as you prepare this delightful Indonesian specialty!