Spicy Indonesian Catfish Stew (Pindang Patin)

Pindang Patin: A Delightful Indonesian Catfish Dish

Pindang Patin is a traditional Indonesian dish featuring catfish simmered in a fragrant, spicy broth. This recipe combines aromatic herbs, spices, and a hint of sweetness to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a hearty dinner, this dish showcases the delicious taste of fresh fish enhanced by a medley of vibrant ingredients. Here’s how to make this delectable dish:

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 whole Patin fish (catfish), cleaned and cut into pieces
• 750 ml water

Blended Spices:

• 6 shallots
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
• 2 red curly chilies
• 2 bird’s eye chilies

Additional Seasonings:

• 2 lime leaves
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, bruised
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, bruised
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste mixed with a bit of water (strained)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce

Garnishes:

• 2 green tomatoes, quartered
• 1 bunch of Thai basil leaves
• 1 red tomato, quartered
• ½ pineapple, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 stalk scallion, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the Patin fish thoroughly. Cut it into manageable pieces and set aside.

2. Cook the Blended Spices: In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the blended spices, including the shallots, garlic, turmeric, red curly chilies, and bird’s eye chilies. Allow the mixture to simmer until the aroma of the spices is released.

3. Add the Additional Seasonings: Next, incorporate the lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, and ginger into the pot. Continue to simmer the broth, letting the flavors meld together.

4. Simmer the Fish: Gently place the Patin fish pieces into the pot. Allow the fish to cook in the aromatic broth until it is partially cooked, approximately halfway through.

5. Incorporate Garnishes: Once the fish is halfway cooked, add the green tomatoes, Thai basil, red tomato, pineapple, and scallions to the pot. Continue to cook until the fish is fully cooked and the garnishes are tender.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt, sugar, and sweet soy sauce as needed. Let the dish simmer until all the flavors are balanced.

7. Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and serve the Pindang Patin hot. Enjoy this flavorful Indonesian catfish dish with steamed rice or as a standalone hearty meal.

This recipe captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine with its blend of aromatic spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the rich, delicate flavor of Patin fish in a vibrant and satisfying dish.