Spicy Tangy Indonesian Tilapia (Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair)

Ingredients:

• 6 medium-sized tilapia fish, cleaned
• 1 turmeric leaf, tied into a knot
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 piece of galangal, bruised
• 1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised
• 2 pieces of asam kandis (Garcinia xanthochymus)

Ground Spices:

• 10 red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
• 6 shallots
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 piece of ginger
• 2 candlenuts
• 600 ml of water
• Salt and sugar to taste

Steps:

1. Prepare the Fish:
   Begin by rubbing the tilapia fish with lime juice and let it sit for 15 minutes. This step helps to remove any fishy odor. Afterward, rinse the fish thoroughly.

2. Cook the Spices:
   In a large pan, add the ground spices along with water, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric leaf, galangal, asam kandis, and lemongrass. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Add the Fish:
   Once the broth is boiling, gently add the tilapia fish to the pan. Season with salt and sugar according to your taste. Allow the fish to cook until it is fully done and the spices have deeply penetrated. Be cautious not to stir too often to prevent the fish from breaking apart.

4. Taste and Adjust:
   Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once the fish is cooked and the flavors are well balanced, remove the pan from heat.

5. Serve:
   Transfer the Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair to a serving dish and serve hot with steamed rice.

Enjoy the tangy and spicy flavors of this traditional Indonesian dish, perfect for a delightful meal with family and friends!