Ikan Nila Acar Kuning: A Delicious Indonesian Dish
Ikan Nila Acar Kuning, a vibrant and flavorful Indonesian dish, beautifully combines the delicate taste of Nile fish with an aromatic blend of spices and vegetables. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Let’s dive into the intricate details of crafting this delightful dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nile fish (Ikan Nila) | 600 grams |
| Carrot (Wortel) | 1, cut into pieces |
| Cucumber (Mentimun) | 1, seeds removed, chopped |
| Bird’s eye chilies (Cabe Rawit) | 20, whole (adjust to taste) |
| Lemongrass (Serai) | 1 stalk, bruised |
| Kaffir lime leaves (Daun Jeruk) | 3 leaves |
| Lime juice (Jeruk Nipis) | ½ tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar | to taste |
| Water | as needed |
Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus)
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 7 cloves |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 4 cloves |
| Turmeric (Kunyit) | 2 segments |
| Ginger (Jahe) | 2 cm |
| Pepper (Merica) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chilies (Cabe Merah) | 5 pieces |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by thoroughly cleaning the Nile fish. Rub the fish with lime juice and sprinkle with salt. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor. |
| 2 | Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the marinated fish until it turns golden brown and becomes crispy. Once done, lift the fish out of the oil and let it drain on paper towels. |
| 3 | In a separate pan, sauté the ground spice paste along with the bruised lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves until fragrant. Add water to create a sauce, followed by the chopped carrot. Allow the mixture to cook until the carrot becomes tender. Season with salt and sugar to taste. |
| 4 | Once the sauce thickens, add the whole bird’s eye chilies and chopped cucumber along with the lime juice. Stir gently and cook for a brief moment to combine the flavors. |
| 5 | Carefully add the fried fish to the pan, allowing it to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. Let it simmer briefly so that the fish becomes infused with the aromatic mixture. |
| 6 | Remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the Ikan Nila Acar Kuning to a serving platter, and enjoy this delightful dish warm or at room temperature, accompanied by steamed rice or as part of a larger meal. |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Conclusion
Ikan Nila Acar Kuning is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine, combining fresh ingredients with vibrant spices to create a dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor. The delicate Nile fish, paired with the tangy and spicy sauce, makes it a perfect choice for family gatherings or special occasions. Serve it alongside warm rice to create a truly authentic Indonesian meal that is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy your culinary journey with this exquisite recipe, and embrace the flavors of Indonesia!
