Steamed Gembung Fish Wrapped in Aromatic Banana Leaves

Pepes Ikan Gembung: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Pepes Ikan Gembung is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the rich flavors of fresh fish, aromatic spices, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. This dish not only highlights the beautiful simplicity of Indonesian cuisine but also offers a delightful experience for your taste buds. Follow this easy recipe to create your own Pepes Ikan Gembung, perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 500 grams of gembung fish (or any other white fish)
• 5 shallots
• 1 clove of garlic
• 5 red chilies (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 cm ginger
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt, to taste
• Turmeric (fresh or powdered)
• Basil leaves (daun kemangi)
• Grated coconut (fresh)
• Banana leaves (for wrapping)
• Wooden skewers or toothpicks (for securing the wraps)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   Begin by blending the shallots, garlic, red chilies, and ginger into a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture will serve as the foundation of your dish.

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2. Marinate the Fish:
   Clean the gembung fish thoroughly and then rub it with lime juice and salt. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes, letting the flavors penetrate deeply.

3. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, mix the ground spices with grated coconut. Incorporate the marinated fish into this mixture, ensuring the fish is evenly coated with the aromatic blend.

4. Wrap the Fish:
   Take a piece of banana leaf and place a portion of the fish mixture in the center. Add a few basil leaves on top for an extra burst of flavor. Fold the banana leaf over the fish to create a secure parcel, using wooden skewers or toothpicks to hold it in place.

5. Steam the Pepes:
   Arrange the wrapped fish in a steamer and steam over medium heat for approximately 30 minutes. This gentle cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the fish tender and moist.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once cooked, carefully unwrap the banana leaves to reveal the fragrant Pepes Ikan Gembung. Serve hot, accompanied by steamed rice, and enjoy this delightful taste of Indonesia.

Tips for Perfect Pepes Ikan Gembung

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh fish and herbs for the best flavor. If gembung fish is not available, any firm white fish can work as a substitute.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the number of chilies according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chilies before blending.
• Additions: You can add other vegetables or spices to the filling, such as finely chopped green beans or lemongrass, to enhance the flavor profile.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250
• Protein: 20 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10 grams

Final Thoughts

Pepes Ikan Gembung not only embodies the essence of Indonesian culinary traditions but also offers a wholesome and satisfying meal option. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into the culinary journey of Indonesia with this delightful recipe, and savor every bite of your homemade Pepes Ikan Gembung!