Pindang Bandeng Kecap: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Dish
Pindang Bandeng Kecap is a beloved Indonesian dish that combines the rich flavors of fish with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a delectable meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe features bandeng (milkfish) simmered in a savory soy sauce broth, enhanced by a medley of fresh ingredients. Let’s dive into the details of this culinary delight!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bandeng (medium-sized milkfish) | 1 whole |
| Shallots | 4 pieces |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Chilies | 3 pieces |
| Ginger | 1 piece (thumb-sized) |
| Galangal | 1 piece (thumb-sized) |
| Turmeric (or turmeric powder) | 1 piece (or to taste) |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves (crushed) |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Medium tomato | 1 piece |
| Chicken-flavored seasoning (Royco) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Soy sauce | To taste |
| Water | Enough to cover the fish |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | Varies by seasoning |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Clean the bandeng by removing its scales and innards. Cut the fish into four equal pieces and rub them with salt and lime juice to enhance flavor and reduce any fishy smell.
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Chop the Aromatics: Finely slice the shallots, garlic, chilies, ginger, and galangal. This combination will form the aromatic base for the dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, and chilies. Sauté until fragrant, making sure to stir frequently to avoid burning.
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Add Herbs: Once the aromatics are fragrant, add the crushed bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass to the pot. Continue to sauté for an additional minute to release the essential oils from the herbs.
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Create the Broth: Pour in enough water to cover the fish, followed by the soy sauce, salt, sugar, and chicken seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Cook the Fish: Once boiling, carefully add the fish pieces to the pot. Allow them to simmer gently until the fish is cooked through, typically around 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
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Add the Tomato: In the final minutes of cooking, add the sliced tomato. This will add a fresh burst of flavor to the dish.
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Taste and Serve: Before serving, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once the fish is fully cooked and the flavors are to your liking, turn off the heat. Serve the Pindang Bandeng Kecap hot, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
Enjoying Pindang Bandeng Kecap
Pindang Bandeng Kecap is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and aromas that transport you to the heart of Indonesia. The combination of tender fish and fragrant herbs creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
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