Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair: A Delightful Indonesian Sour Fish Dish
Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair is a beloved dish hailing from Indonesia, known for its bold flavors and delightful sourness. Featuring Mujair fish, a popular freshwater fish, this recipe is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and tangy notes that create a truly memorable culinary experience. Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this dish will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s embark on this culinary journey!
Ingredients
The following ingredients will serve approximately 4 to 6 people.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mujair fish (medium size) | 6 fish, cleaned |
| Turmeric leaf | 1 leaf, tied in a knot |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Galangal | 1 piece, crushed |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk, crushed |
| Tamarind | 2 pieces |
| For the Spice Paste: | |
| Red chilies | 10 pieces (adjust to taste) |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 piece |
| Candlenuts | 2 pieces |
| Water | 600 ml |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
Nutritional Information
The nutritional values for Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create this delectable Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair:
-
Preparing the Fish:
- Begin by rinsing the cleaned Mujair fish under cold running water. Then, rub the fish with lime juice and allow it to marinate for approximately 15 minutes. This process helps to eliminate any fishy odor. After marinating, rinse the fish again with water and set aside.
-
Making the Spice Paste:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the red chilies, shallots, garlic, ginger, and candlenuts. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. This spice paste will serve as the flavor base for your dish.
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Cooking the Base:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add the blended spice paste. Stir it continuously until the oil begins to separate from the paste, indicating that the flavors have developed.
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Adding Liquid and Aromatics:
- Pour in 600 ml of water, stirring well to combine. Add the kaffir lime leaves, turmeric leaf, crushed galangal, and crushed lemongrass. Mix everything thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Cooking the Fish:
- Once the broth is boiling, carefully place the marinated Mujair fish into the pot. Season the dish with salt and sugar to taste, balancing the flavors according to your preference. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Allow the fish to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully. Be cautious not to stir the fish too often to prevent it from breaking apart.
-
Final Touches:
- After the fish is fully cooked, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or sugar if needed.
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Serving:
- Once done, remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the fish and broth to a serving platter. Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair is best enjoyed warm, accompanied by steamed rice, which complements the rich flavors of the dish beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair
- Choosing the Fish: Fresh fish is ideal for this recipe. If Mujair is not available, you can substitute it with another firm white fish.
- Adjusting Spiciness: Modify the amount of red chilies based on your heat preference. You can also add more chilies if you enjoy an extra kick.
- Enhancing Flavor: For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking, which will also enhance the dish’s creaminess.
Conclusion
Asam Padeh Ikan Mujair is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of Indonesian cuisine with its vibrant flavors and fragrant spices. This recipe not only offers a satisfying meal but also a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia. So gather your ingredients and savor the incredible taste of this sour fish dish, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
