Tumis Asin Gabus: A Flavorful Indonesian Stir-Fry

Tumis Asin Gabus, a delightful Indonesian dish, showcases the unique flavor of salted snakehead fish, combined with aromatic spices and vibrant vegetables. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for those seeking a burst of umami in their meals. Let’s dive into the steps to create this exquisite stir-fry.

Ingredients

To prepare this delectable Tumis Asin Gabus, gather the following ingredients:

• 500 grams salted snakehead fish (ikan asin gabus)
• 3 shallots (bawang merah), thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic (bawang putih), minced
• 3 red curly chilies (cabe merah kriting), sliced
• 5 green curly chilies (cabe ijo kriting), sliced
• 1 onion (bawang bombay), cut into thin strips
• A pinch of seasoning (penyedap rasa)
• A pinch of sugar (gula pasir)

Instructions

1. Soak the Fish: Begin by soaking the salted snakehead fish in hot water for about three minutes. This process helps to soften the fish and reduces excess saltiness, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.

2. Prepare the Aromatics: While the fish is soaking, thinly slice the shallots and garlic, and slice the red curly chilies. These aromatic ingredients will create a fragrant base for the dish.

3. Sauté the Base: In a frying pan or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots, minced garlic, and red curly chilies. Sauté until fragrant, releasing the delicious aroma that will elevate your dish.

4. Add the Fish: Once the aromatics are fragrant, introduce the soaked salted snakehead fish to the pan. Pour in a small amount of water to create a savory sauce, ensuring the fish is well-coated.

5. Incorporate Vegetables: Next, add the sliced green curly chilies and onion strips to the pan. Avoid cutting the onions too finely; keeping them in larger pieces will add a lovely crunch to the final dish.

6. Season to Taste: Sprinkle a pinch of seasoning and sugar into the pan. The sugar balances the saltiness of the fish, while the seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile. Note that additional salt is unnecessary due to the inherent saltiness of the salted fish.

7. Final Touches: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cook until the liquid has reduced and the ingredients are well combined, then turn off the heat.

8. Serve: Your Tumis Asin Gabus is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with steamed rice for a comforting meal that beautifully showcases the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

Enjoying Tumis Asin Gabus

This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you to the heart of Indonesia with every bite. The combination of tender fish, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables makes Tumis Asin Gabus a must-try for any food enthusiast. Enjoy it with family and friends, making every dining experience a memorable one.