Pindang Patin: A Deliciously Spicy Fish Soup
Pindang Patin is a traditional Indonesian dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. This fish soup is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome family meal. The combination of fresh patin fish, aromatic herbs, and tangy vegetables results in a comforting dish that is sure to warm your soul. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe, including ingredients, preparation steps, and nutritional information, so you can recreate this delightful culinary experience at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Patin fish (cut into 4 parts) | 1 whole fish |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 bunch |
| Star fruit (sliced) | 3 pieces |
| Tomatoes (quartered) | 3 pieces |
| Large green chili (sliced) | 1 piece |
| Green onions (chopped) | To taste |
| Tamarind paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Sweet soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 1.5 liters |
| Cooking oil | 2 tablespoons (for sautéing) |
| Lemongrass (bruised) | 1 stalk |
| Galangal (bruised) | 2 cm |
| Bay leaves | 1 leaf |
| Ground spices: | |
| Shallots (medium) | 5 cloves |
| Garlic (medium) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger | 2 cm |
| Turmeric | 3 cm |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer | To taste |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by heating the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and galangal. Sauté until fragrant. |
| 2 | Add the sliced green chili, lemongrass, and bay leaf to the pot, stirring well to combine all the flavors. Allow these ingredients to cook for a minute, enhancing the aroma. |
| 3 | Carefully pour in 1.5 liters of water and add the patin fish pieces. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. |
| 4 | Stir in the tamarind paste and sweet soy sauce, allowing it to blend with the broth. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. |
| 5 | Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and flavor enhancer if needed. Once satisfied, add the quartered tomatoes and star fruit. Cook for an additional minute. |
| 6 | Finally, fold in the chopped green onions and fresh basil leaves, stirring gently to combine them into the soup. |
| 7 | Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a moment to allow the flavors to deepen before serving. Your Pindang Patin is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot and relish the vibrant flavors. |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Final Thoughts
Pindang Patin is not only a feast for the palate but also a beautiful representation of Indonesian culinary heritage, featuring fresh ingredients that harmonize to create a comforting and nourishing dish. Whether served alongside steamed rice or enjoyed on its own, this fish soup is a delightful way to explore the rich flavors of Indonesia. Enjoy your culinary journey and happy cooking!
