Ikan Bandeng Bumbu Acar: A Delightful Indonesian Dish

Experience the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delightful recipe for Ikan Bandeng Bumbu Acar, a beautifully spiced fish dish that harmoniously combines the freshness of vegetables with aromatic seasonings. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

To create this culinary masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Fish

• 1 whole bandeng fish (bandeng is a type of milkfish)
• 4 medium cucumbers
• 2 local carrots

For the Spice Paste

• 8 shallots
• 3-4 cloves of garlic
• 2 candlenuts
• 1/2 inch ginger
• 1 inch turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon whole peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf (torn into pieces)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (bruised)
• 1 inch galangal (bruised)
• 5 bilimbi fruit (blimbing wuluh)
• Salt (to taste)
• Brown sugar (to taste)

Preparation Steps

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ikan Bandeng Bumbu Acar:

1. Prepare the Fish:
   Begin by cleaning the bandeng fish thoroughly. Rinse it under cold water, then season it with salt and a splash of vinegar. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor. Once marinated, fry the fish in hot oil until it is cooked through and slightly crispy, about halfway dried out.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   While the fish is frying, prepare the vegetables. Slice the cucumbers into thin matchsticks and do the same with the carrots. For added texture, ensure the slices are uniform.

3. Make the Spice Paste:
   In a skillet, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the finely ground spice paste (made from shallots, garlic, candlenuts, ginger, turmeric, and peppercorns) and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Incorporate Aromatics:
   Add the bruised lemongrass, galangal, and torn bay leaf to the skillet. Season with salt and brown sugar, then add a splash of water to create a rich sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 5 minutes.

5. Combine the Fish and Vegetables:
   Gently add the fried bandeng fish to the skillet, making sure to coat it with the flavorful sauce. Finally, fold in the sliced cucumbers and carrots, stirring to combine. Cook everything together for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Serve:
   Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the Ikan Bandeng Bumbu Acar to a serving platter, and it’s ready to enjoy! This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty side.

Tips for Serving

For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs or serve alongside a zesty sambal for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This dish is perfect for family meals, celebrations, or whenever you crave a taste of Indonesia.

Enjoy your culinary journey with this delicious Ikan Bandeng Bumbu Acar, where every bite brings the vibrant essence of Indonesian flavors to your table!