Pindang Serani Ikan Kembung

Discover the delightful flavors of Pindang Serani Ikan Kembung, a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the rich taste of mackerel with aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire with a dish that is both fragrant and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Fish

• 500 grams mackerel (ikan kembung), cut into two pieces

For the Spice Paste

• 1 piece turmeric (approximately the size of your thumb)
• 1 piece ginger (about the same size)
• 1 piece galangal (lengkuas)
• 6 shallots (bawang merah)
• 3 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
• 2 roasted candlenuts (kemiri)
• Salt and sugar to taste

For the Additional Seasoning

• Sliced bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit), to taste
• Tamarind (asam jawa), to taste
• 4 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (serai), bruised
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• Water, enough to cover the fish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the spice paste ingredients until fragrant. This step is essential to release the aromatic oils and flavors.

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2. Add the Seasonings: Once the spice paste is fragrant, add the sliced bird’s eye chilies, tamarind, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, bruised lemongrass, and sliced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

3. Add Water: Pour in enough water to ensure the fish will be submerged while cooking. This will create a flavorful broth that complements the fish beautifully.

4. Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a boil. Once boiling, gently add the mackerel pieces, making sure they are well-covered with the broth.

5. Taste and Adjust: After the fish has cooked through, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar as needed.

6. Serve: Once everything is well incorporated and the fish is cooked, your Pindang Serani Ikan Kembung is ready to serve! Enjoy this dish warm, ideally with steamed rice to soak up the delicious broth.

Tips

• This dish can be made ahead of time and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Feel free to adjust the spiciness according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of chilies used.

Enjoy crafting this flavorful dish that not only nourishes but also brings a taste of Indonesia to your table. Happy cooking!