Gulai Ikan Simba: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Ingredients

To create this delicious Gulai Ikan Simba, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 whole Simba fish (approximately 2 kg)
• 250 grams shallots
• 7 cloves garlic
• 3 segments turmeric
• 3 segments ginger
• 1 segment galangal
• 250 grams red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
• 4 stalks lemongrass
• 4 pieces kaffir lime leaves (stems removed)
• 4 pieces bay leaves
• 2 candlenuts (optional)
• 2 pieces turmeric leaves
• To taste: coriander powder
• To taste: pepper
• To taste: salt
• To taste: seasoning
• 500 ml thick coconut milk
• Water as needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by finely grinding all the spices—shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and galangal—into a smooth paste. For the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves, simply bruise them with a mortar and pestle to release their aromatic oils.

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2. Sauté the Spice Paste: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground spice mixture and sauté until fragrant, ensuring the rich aromas fill your kitchen.

3. Combine the Aromatics: Once the spices are fragrant, introduce the bruised lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves. Next, pour in the thick coconut milk and add a sufficient amount of water to create a luscious gravy.

4. Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. This process will help the flavors meld beautifully together.

5. Add the Fish: After the mixture is bubbling, carefully add the cleaned and cut Simba fish into the pot. Ensure the fish is submerged in the aromatic broth. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the fish to absorb all the fragrant spices, resulting in a deeply flavorful dish.

6. Final Touches: After 20 minutes, check the seasoning, adjusting salt, pepper, and any other seasonings to your preference. Once satisfied, remove the pot from the heat.

7. Serve: Your Gulai Ikan Simba is now ready to be served. Pair it with steamed rice for a complete meal that showcases the rich flavors of Indonesia.

Enjoyment

Gulai Ikan Simba is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and textures. The tender fish, enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce, is perfect for family gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a touch of Indonesian culinary tradition. Enjoy this delightful dish and savor the taste of authenticity with every bite!