Ikan Kuwe Merah Merona: A Deliciously Spicy Red Snapper Dish
This vibrant Ikan Kuwe Merah Merona, featuring succulent red snapper, is a tantalizing dish that brings together the robust flavors of spices and fresh ingredients. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with its bold taste and colorful presentation.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red snapper fish | 4 medium-sized pieces |
| Tomatoes | 2, cut into quarters |
| Red chilies | 5, sliced lengthwise |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Galangal | 1 piece, crushed |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk, tied in a knot and crushed |
| Tamarind water | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 2 cups (belimbing glass) |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
| For the spice paste: | |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Shallots | 4 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili | 3 pieces |
| Coriander | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric | 1/2 piece |
| Ginger | 1/2 piece |
| Salt | A pinch |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the red snapper. Make shallow cuts on the sides of the fish to allow the flavors to penetrate. Next, marinate the fish in a mixture of water, crushed garlic, and salt, letting it sit for about 15 minutes. -
-
Fry the Fish:
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated fish. Fry the fish until it is golden and half-cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove the fish and set aside. -
Make the Spice Paste:
While the fish is frying, prepare the spice paste. In a blender, combine the garlic, shallots, bird’s eye chili, coriander, turmeric, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. -
Sauté the Spices:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the spice paste and sauté it over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. -
Add Vegetables and Aromatics:
Once the spice paste is aromatic, add the quartered tomatoes, sliced red chilies, crushed galangal, tied lemongrass, and bay leaves to the skillet. Stir well, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. -
Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the tamarind water, and mix briefly. Then, gently add the fried fish back into the skillet. Check the seasoning and adjust as necessary. -
Simmer:
Pour in the water and gently flip the fish to coat it in the sauce. Allow the dish to simmer over low heat until the sauce thickens and reduces, about 10-15 minutes, turning the fish occasionally to ensure even cooking. -
Serve:
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking and the fish is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Ikan Kuwe Merah Merona to a serving platter, garnishing it with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice for a delightful meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~30 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~8 g |
| Fat | ~10 g |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
Enjoy the rich flavors and vibrant colors of this Ikan Kuwe Merah Merona, a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also warms the heart! Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this recipe encapsulates the essence of home-cooked meals with love.
