Simple Sea Fish and Tofu Soup with Ground Spices
Ingredients:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh sea fish (any type of your choice) | 250 grams |
| Salted tofu, cut into 2 parts | 5 pieces |
| Spring onions, for garnish (optional) | As needed |
| Spice paste | |
| Garlic, peeled | 3 cloves |
| Shallots, peeled | 5 cloves |
| Red curly chili peppers | 5 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chili peppers (adjust to taste) | 10 pieces |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fried shrimp paste (terasi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tamarind, soaked | A small amount (to taste) |
| Palm sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken bouillon powder | 1 packet |
| Water | 750 ml |
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Thoroughly clean the fish. If large, cut into smaller pieces. Squeeze a little lime juice over the fish to remove any fishy smell. |
| Step 2 | Prepare the spice paste by grinding the garlic, shallots, red curly chilis, bird’s eye chilis, turmeric powder, fried shrimp paste, tamarind, and sugar. You can use a mortar and pestle for an authentic touch or a food processor. |
| Step 3 | Sauté the ground spices in a bit of oil until fragrant. Add water and let it come to a boil. Stir well. |
| Step 4 | Once the broth is boiling, add the fish and cook until it’s fully cooked through. |
| Step 5 | Add the salted tofu and continue cooking for a few more minutes, adjusting the seasoning according to taste. |
| Step 6 | Garnish with chopped spring onions if using. Serve the soup hot. |
Enjoy this light yet flavorful soup as a comforting meal, perfect for any occasion. The salty richness of the tofu complements the tender fish in a spicy, tangy broth, enhanced with the depth of tamarind and shrimp paste.
