Asam Padeh Ikan Tenggiri: A Delightful Spicy and Sour Mackerel Dish
Asam Padeh Ikan Tenggiri is a beloved dish from Indonesia, renowned for its vibrant flavors that perfectly balance sour, spicy, and aromatic elements. This dish features tender mackerel fillets simmered in a tangy tamarind broth, enhanced by fragrant herbs and spices. The combination of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves adds a distinctive aroma, making this dish not only a feast for the palate but also for the senses. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe that guides you through creating this delicious Indonesian classic, perfect for impressing family and friends at your next gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mackerel fillet (ikan tenggiri) | 8 pieces |
| Lemongrass (sereh, bruised) | 3 stalks |
| Galangal (lengkuas, bruised) | 4 cm |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5 cloves |
| Red chili (cabai rawit merah) | 6 pieces |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | 5 leaves |
| Tamarind water | to taste |
| Lime juice (perasan jeruk nipis) | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
| Water | as needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Instructions
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Preparation of Mackerel
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the mackerel fillets under running water. Once cleaned, place the fillets in a bowl and season them with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of lime juice. Allow the fish to marinate for about 10 minutes; this step enhances the flavor while tenderizing the fish. -
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Creating the Spice Paste
While the fish is marinating, prepare the spice mixture. In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots and red chilies. Blend until a smooth paste forms. The aromatic blend will serve as the foundation for the dish, imparting richness and heat. -
Sautéing the Spices
In a large pot or wok, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the spice paste you just created. Sauté the paste until it becomes fragrant and turns a golden color, which should take about 2-3 minutes. -
Infusing Flavor
To the sautéed spices, add the bruised lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. These ingredients will infuse the dish with delightful aromas. Next, pour in the tamarind water along with a squeeze of lime juice. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors. -
Cooking the Fish
Now it’s time to introduce the marinated mackerel fillets to the pot. Gently place the fish into the simmering broth. Be cautious not to stir too vigorously, as the fish may break apart. Allow the fillets to cook through until they are opaque and flaky, approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. -
Final Seasoning
Once the fish is fully cooked, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. This is the moment to ensure that the dish has the right balance of flavors, so feel free to add more lime juice or tamarind water to achieve your desired level of sourness. -
Serving
Once the flavors are balanced and the fish is cooked to perfection, remove the pot from heat. Serve Asam Padeh Ikan Tenggiri hot, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and a side of vegetables, allowing the spicy and sour flavors to shine through in every bite.
Conclusion
Asam Padeh Ikan Tenggiri is not just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Its delightful blend of spices and flavors makes it a perfect dish for family gatherings or special occasions. With this recipe, you can recreate this vibrant dish in your own kitchen, bringing a taste of Indonesia to your table. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the joy it brings to those you share it with!
