Mangut Ikan Asap & Tempe: A Delightful Indonesian Smoked Fish and Tempeh Stew
Indulge in the rich flavors of Mangut Ikan Asap & Tempe, a traditional Indonesian dish that combines the smoky goodness of fish with the hearty texture of tempeh, all enveloped in a creamy coconut sauce. This recipe showcases the unique blend of spices and ingredients typical of Indonesian cuisine, making it a perfect choice for those looking to explore new culinary horizons or simply to enjoy a comforting meal at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked fish | 5 pieces |
| Tempeh | 6 pieces |
| Red chili peppers | 3, seeds removed |
| Candlenuts | 2 |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili | to taste |
| Galangal, crushed | to taste |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Coconut milk | 500 ml |
| Fried shallots | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar or seasoning | to taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh and Fish: Start by frying the tempeh and smoked fish until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, blend together the garlic, red chili peppers, and candlenuts until a smooth paste forms. This aromatic spice blend will provide the dish with a delightful depth of flavor.
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Sauté the Spice Mixture: In a large pot or skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste and sauté it until it becomes fragrant and well-cooked, about 3-5 minutes.
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Add the Aromatics: Toss in the bay leaves and crushed galangal to infuse the dish with even more aromatic goodness.
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Incorporate Coconut Milk: Slowly pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine with the spices. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
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Add the Tempeh and Fish: Carefully add the fried tempeh and smoked fish to the pot, allowing them to soak up the flavorful sauce.
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Season the Dish: Introduce the fried shallots, whole bird’s eye chilies, and your preferred amounts of salt, sugar, or seasoning to taste. Stir gently and let the dish simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Simmer to Perfection: Continue to cook until the dish reaches a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sauce thickens and the ingredients are fully infused with the spices, about 10-15 minutes.
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Final Taste Check: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once ready, serve your Mangut Ikan Asap & Tempe warm, garnished with additional fried shallots if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own for a comforting meal.
This hearty stew not only provides a delightful combination of textures and flavors but also showcases the richness of Indonesian culinary traditions. With its smoky fish, creamy coconut, and aromatic spices, Mangut Ikan Asap & Tempe is sure to be a hit at your dining table, bringing a taste of Indonesia into your home. Enjoy!
