Pepes Ikan Layur

Discover the vibrant flavors of Pepes Ikan Layur, a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the succulent layur fish wrapped in fragrant banana leaves and infused with a medley of aromatic spices. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a beautiful addition to any meal, especially when paired with steaming white rice. Here’s how to prepare this delightful recipe.

Ingredients

• 500 grams layur fish (or any preferred fish)
• 5 shallots, peeled
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 3 cm turmeric, peeled
• 3 cm ginger, peeled
• 2 cm galangal, peeled
• 1 stalk lemongrass, white part only, bruised
• Salt to taste
• Sugar to taste
• Flavor enhancer (such as Royco chicken flavor) to taste
• 7 red chilies (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 2 sheets banana leaves (cleaned and warmed over low heat until slightly wilted)
• Cooking oil as needed
• Toothpicks or bamboo skewers for securing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Start by cleaning the layur fish thoroughly under running water. Ensure it’s completely free of any scales or impurities.

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2. Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar and pestle, combine the shallots, garlic, red chilies, lemongrass, galangal, ginger, and turmeric. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spices: Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the mixture. Season with sugar, salt, and flavor enhancer to taste, stirring well to combine.

4. Combine with Fish: Add the cleaned layur fish to the pan, gently stirring to ensure the fish is coated evenly with the aromatic spice mixture. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish.

5. Prepare the Banana Leaves: Take the warmed banana leaves and cut them into pieces large enough to wrap portions of the fish. Place a portion of the fish on the leaf, then fold the leaf over to enclose it securely.

6. Secure the Wraps: Use toothpicks or bamboo skewers to secure the ends of the banana leaves, ensuring the fish is tightly wrapped inside.

7. Steam the Fish: Prepare a steamer and place the wrapped fish parcels inside. Steam for about 20 minutes. For an extra layer of flavor, you can grill them briefly after steaming, though steaming alone will yield a moist and flavorful dish.

8. Serve: Once cooked, unwrap the banana leaves to reveal the beautifully steamed fish. Serve hot with a side of warm steamed rice for a complete meal that showcases the rich, traditional flavors of Indonesia.

Enjoying Pepes Ikan Layur

This delightful Pepes Ikan Layur not only brings a unique taste but also a wonderful presentation. The banana leaves impart a subtle earthy aroma that enhances the dish, making it a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy your culinary journey with this traditional Indonesian dish, and let the flavors transport you to the heart of Indonesia!