Bandeng Masak Woku: A Flavorful Indonesian Mackerel Delight
Bandeng Masak Woku is a traditional Indonesian dish that features mackerel cooked in a fragrant, spicy sauce enriched with a medley of fresh herbs and vegetables. The combination of the fish with the aromatic spices creates a delightful experience for your taste buds, perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also showcases the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mackerel (Bandeng) | 2 fish, cleaned and cut |
| Fresh lime juice | To taste |
| Sweet basil leaves (daun kemangi) | A handful |
| Green chilies | 2, sliced |
| Tomatoes | 2, diced large |
Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus)
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 8 cloves |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger (Jahe) | 1 piece, about 1-inch |
| Turmeric (Kunyit) | 1 piece, about 1-inch |
| Galangal (Lengkuas) | 1 piece, smashed |
| Lemongrass (Sereh) | 2 stalks, bruised |
| Kaffir lime leaves (Daun Jeruk) | 4 leaves |
| Bird’s eye chilies (Cabe Rawit) | 10 chilies |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by blending the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and galangal into a smooth paste. You can use a mortar and pestle or a food processor for this step.
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Sauté the Spices: In a large pan over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the spice paste until it becomes fragrant and the raw smell dissipates, which usually takes about 3–5 minutes. Ensure the mixture doesn’t burn.
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Add Water and Chilies: Pour in enough water to create a sauce and add the sliced green chilies. Bring this mixture to a boil.
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Cook the Mackerel: Once boiling, gently add the cleaned mackerel pieces to the pan. Reduce the heat to low and let the fish simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the fish to cook through for about 10–15 minutes. Ensure the fish is cooked through and the spices are well absorbed.
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Add Fresh Ingredients: In the last few minutes of cooking, add the sweet basil leaves and diced tomatoes to the pan. Gently stir to combine, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly, which should take just a minute or two.
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Serve: Once the dish is cooked and aromatic, remove from heat. Serve warm with steamed rice, allowing everyone to enjoy the robust flavors of this Indonesian delight.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | Varies (based on added salt) |
This Bandeng Masak Woku recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, bringing a taste of Indonesia to your dining table. Enjoy the balance of spices and freshness in every bite!
