Tenggiri Kuah Asam Pedas: A Flavorful Indonesian Sour Soup
Tenggiri kuah asam pedas, a delightful and aromatic dish from Indonesia, features tender tenggiri fish simmered in a tangy and spicy broth, infused with vibrant herbs and vegetables. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also warms the soul, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive recipe to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 500 grams tenggiri fish, cut into round slices
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 green tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
- 3 cm ginger, bruised
- 4 cm turmeric, roasted and bruised
- 5 star fruits, halved
- 10 whole bird’s eye chilies
- 5 red curly chilies, sliced diagonally
- 10 green bird’s eye chilies, sliced diagonally
- 1 scallion, roughly chopped
- 750 ml water
- Salt, sugar, and ground pepper, to taste
For the Spice Paste
- 6 shallots, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Begin by washing the tenggiri fish thoroughly under cold running water. Once clean, marinate the fish with the freshly squeezed lime juice, allowing it to rest for about 15 minutes. After marinating, rinse the fish again to remove any residual lime juice, then set aside.
Step 2: Boil the Water
In a large pot, bring 750 ml of water to a rolling boil. This will serve as the base for your flavorful soup.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the thinly sliced shallots and garlic until fragrant. This process releases the aromatic flavors that are essential for the soup. Next, add the bird’s eye chilies, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric, lemongrass, and ginger to the pan. Stir and sauté until the ingredients soften and become fragrant.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Transfer the sautéed mixture into the pot of boiling water. Season the broth with salt and sugar to taste, then gently add the marinated fish into the pot. Allow the mixture to come to a boil again, ensuring the fish cooks evenly.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Once the fish is cooked through, add the halved star fruits and whole bird’s eye chilies to the pot. Let everything simmer together until the flavors meld beautifully. Before removing the pot from heat, add the chopped green tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor.
Step 6: Final Touches
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the roughly chopped scallion on top of the soup. For an extra aromatic touch, feel free to add some basil leaves if desired.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the hot tenggiri kuah asam pedas into bowls and serve immediately. This soup pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making it a hearty and fulfilling meal that your family and friends will love.
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional values can vary based on the exact quantities and types of ingredients used, this dish generally provides a wholesome balance of protein from the fish and a medley of vitamins from the vegetables, making it both a nutritious and satisfying option for any dining occasion.
Enjoy Your Culinary Journey!
Creating tenggiri kuah asam pedas is not just about preparing a meal; it’s about embracing the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine and sharing that love with those around you. Whether you’re enjoying this dish on a quiet night or serving it at a gathering, each spoonful tells a story of tradition and warmth. Happy cooking!
