Gulai Ikan Gabus Laut: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Curry

Gulai Ikan Gabus Laut is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the rich flavors of the sea combined with aromatic herbs and spices. This recipe will guide you through creating a flavorful and comforting curry that is perfect for any meal. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients

For the Fish:

500 grams of Ikan Gabus Laut (river fish)
1 bay leaf
3 kaffir lime leaves
1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised
1 piece of galangal, bruised
1 packet of Kara coconut milk
2 pieces of asam kandis (dried tamarind)
1 teaspoon of fine salt
½ teaspoon of sugar
1 carrot
6 green beans

For the Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus):

5 shallots
3 cloves of garlic
1 piece of ginger
1 piece of turmeric
½ teaspoon of coriander seeds
1 candlenut
200 ml of water

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Paste

Begin by blending the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, coriander seeds, and candlenut into a smooth paste. This aromatic blend forms the heart of your gulai, infusing it with deep, rich flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Spice Paste

In a large pot or pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté it until fragrant, allowing the enticing aromas to fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once the spice paste is aromatic, introduce the bruised lemongrass, bay leaf, kaffir lime leaves, and asam kandis to the pot. These ingredients will enhance the flavor profile, creating a complex and delightful curry base.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

While the spices are cooking, wash the carrot and green beans thoroughly. Peel the carrot and slice it diagonally into thin pieces. Cut the green beans into short segments, ensuring they are bite-sized.

Step 5: Combine Coconut Milk and Water

In a separate bowl, mix the coconut milk with water to create a creamy base for your gulai. This combination adds a luscious texture that balances the flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Cook the Coconut Milk

Pour the coconut milk mixture into the pot with the sautéed spices. Cook over low heat, stirring gently to prevent the coconut milk from splitting. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency that makes gulai so delightful.

Step 7: Season the Curry

Next, add the fine salt and sugar to the pot. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 8: Add the Fish

Carefully add the ikan gabus to the pot. Allow the fish to simmer in the aromatic broth, absorbing all the wonderful flavors. Cook until the fish is tender and cooked through, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 9: Incorporate the Vegetables

Finally, add the sliced carrots and green beans to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color, approximately 5-7 minutes. This step not only adds nutrition but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is cooked to perfection, transfer the Gulai Ikan Gabus Laut to a serving dish. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Nutritional Information

Gulai Ikan Gabus Laut is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The fish provides a good source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. The use of coconut milk offers healthy fats that are beneficial in moderation.

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delightful Gulai Ikan Gabus Laut. It’s a dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy your culinary journey!