Pindang Ikan Patin: A Refreshing Sour Fish Stew with Vegetables
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Patin Fish | 1 kg |
| Lime Juice | 1 lime (to clean the fish) |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Ground Turmeric | To taste |
| Lemongrass Stalks | 2 stalks |
| Curly Red Chilies | 3 pieces |
| Tomato | 1 medium |
| Green Beans | 1/4 kg |
| Cabbage (Kol) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fried Shallots | For garnish |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fish: Clean the fresh patin fish thoroughly and squeeze lime juice over it to remove the fishy smell. Let it sit in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Blend the shallots, garlic, and ground turmeric into a smooth paste. Set aside.
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Boil the Aromatics: In a pot, bring water to a boil, then add the lemongrass stalks, curly red chilies, and the tomato. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: Once the aromatics have boiled, add the blended spice paste into the pot. Use a pestle to crush the tomato and chilies slightly, then sauté the mixture to deepen the flavors.
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Cook the Fish: Carefully add the patin fish into the simmering broth. Be cautious not to overcook the fish, as patin is delicate and can easily break apart. Let the fish cook just until it is fully done.
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Add Vegetables: Once the fish is nearly cooked through, add in the green beans and cabbage. Let them cook for a few more minutes until they are tender but still vibrant in color.
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Season: Season the soup with salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
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Serve: Once the soup is ready and the flavors have melded together, ladle into bowls and garnish with fried shallots for extra crunch and flavor. Serve this delicious, tangy fish stew warm with steamed rice or crusty bread.
This vibrant Pindang Ikan Patin recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh fish, aromatic herbs, and the perfect balance of sour and savory notes. It’s a perfect dish for a hearty and flavorful meal, especially if you’re in the mood for a refreshing, light, and nutrient-packed stew!
