Kembung with White Mustard Greens in Rujak Sauce

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 4 large mackerel fish (kembung), cut into 8 pieces
• 1 bunch of white mustard greens (sawi putih), chopped to your preference
• 1 package of Kara coconut milk
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 piece of galangal (lengkuas), smashed
• 1 tablespoon tamarind water
• Salt, sugar, and Masako seasoning, to taste
• Cooking oil, for frying
• Water, as needed
• A few drops of olive oil (optional)

For the Spice Paste:

• 8 shallots
• 6 cloves of garlic
• 10 large red chilies
• 6 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit)
• 3 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 1 onion, sliced (optional)

Steps

1. Prepare the Fish:
   Begin by frying the mackerel pieces in hot oil until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, drain the fish on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

2. Make the Spice Paste:
   In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and candlenuts. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste along with the sliced onion (if using) and sauté until fragrant and cooked through.

4. Add the Aromatics:
   Once the paste is fragrant, add the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and smashed galangal to the pan. Stir well.

5. Add Liquid:
   Pour in some water and bring the mixture to a boil. After it reaches a rolling boil, add the coconut milk, tamarind water, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.

6. Combine the Fish:
   Gently add the fried mackerel to the pan, ensuring each piece is well coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the fish absorbs the flavors.

7. Add the Greens:
   Finally, add the chopped white mustard greens to the pan. Cook until the greens are slightly wilted and tender, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

8. Serve:
   Your Kembung with White Mustard Greens in Rujak Sauce is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm, perhaps with steamed rice, and savor the delightful combination of flavors.

Enjoy your meal!

This flavorful dish is not only a great addition to any gathering but also highlights the wonderful balance of spices and freshness that makes Indonesian cuisine so beloved.