Gembung Masak Merah: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Dish
Gembung Masak Merah is a delightful Indonesian recipe that showcases the delicious mackerel fish, known as ikan kembung, simmered in a rich, spicy sauce. This dish is characterized by its vibrant red color and robust flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Below is a detailed recipe for preparing Gembung Masak Merah that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan Kembung (mackerel) | 3 whole fish, cleaned and drained |
| Cooking Oil | As needed for frying |
| Lime | 1 piece, juiced |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Onion | 1 stalk, diagonally sliced |
| Onion (Bombay) | 1 piece, finely sliced |
| Margarine | 1 tablespoon |
| Tamarind Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 500 mL |
| Spice Paste | |
| Red Chili Peppers | 15 pieces |
| Red Tomato | 1.5 pieces |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Shrimp Paste | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | 2.5 teaspoons |
| Sugar | 1.5 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 300 |
| Protein | Approx. 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 20 g |
| Fat | Approx. 15 g |
| Sodium | Varies by salt used |
Instructions
-
Preparation of Fish:
- Begin by cutting two of the ikan kembung in half. Rub the fish thoroughly with lime juice and sprinkle salt over them. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes. This process will not only enhance the flavor but also help reduce any fishy odor.
-
-
Frying the Fish:
- Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently add the marinated fish, frying them until they are half-cooked and golden brown. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
-
Cooking the Aromatics:
- In the same pan, melt the margarine along with a tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the finely sliced onion and sauté over high heat until the onions are softened and translucent.
-
Adding the Spice Paste:
- Next, incorporate the spice paste, which consists of the blended red chili peppers, red tomato, garlic, shrimp paste, salt, and sugar. Stir-fry the mixture until the fragrant oils begin to separate from the paste, indicating that it is well-cooked.
-
Incorporating the Fish:
- After the spice paste is cooked, pour in the tamarind water, stirring to combine. Gently add the fried fish back into the pan, mixing carefully to coat the fish with the spicy mixture.
-
Simmering:
- Gradually pour in the 500 mL of water, stirring to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
-
Finishing Touches:
- Once the sauce has thickened and the fish is fully cooked, add the diagonally sliced green onion. Give it a final stir to combine, and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
-
Serving:
- Turn off the heat and serve the Gembung Masak Merah hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, allowing the rich sauce to be absorbed by the grains.
Conclusion
Gembung Masak Merah is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that reflects the culinary heritage of Indonesia. With its beautiful presentation and delectable taste, this dish will surely become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy this culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share the experience with your loved ones!
