Bandeng Tanpa Duri: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Dish

Ingredients

• 1 large bandeng (milkfish)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 shallots
• Ground pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Sugar, to taste
• 1 stalk green onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• For coating:
  • 1 beaten egg

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Bandeng

Begin by preparing the bandeng. Carefully remove the entrails from the neck of the fish, taking care to keep the fish intact. Gently pound the body of the bandeng using a pestle to slightly break the flesh, which will help create a tender texture. Trim the neck portion, ensuring not to detach it completely from the head.

Step 2: Clean the Fish

Thoroughly clean the gills, using the tip of a knife to scrape out any remaining impurities. Next, break the spine of the fish at the tail end and gently pull out the backbone from the head. If you encounter difficulty, you can use a pair of pliers for assistance. Carefully scoop out the flesh of the bandeng using a small spoon, ensuring you don’t tear the skin.

Step 3: Separate the Flesh

Once you’ve extracted all the flesh, separate it from the skin. Don’t worry about small bones, as they will be blended later. If you notice any large bones, remove and discard them.

Step 4: Blend the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the fish flesh with minced garlic, shallots, ground pepper, salt, sugar, and one egg. Blend until smooth and well-combined. Once mixed, fold in the finely chopped green onions, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag and secure the end with a rubber band.

Step 5: Stuff the Fish Skin

Gently fill the fish skin with the prepared mixture until it’s slightly full. To prevent the filling from spilling out during frying, insert a skewer into the neck of the fish.

Step 6: Coat and Fry

Dip the stuffed bandeng in the beaten egg for coating. Fry the fish over low heat in a non-stick skillet to prevent it from breaking apart. Avoid flipping the fish too frequently to maintain its shape. Fry until golden brown and cooked through.

Serving Suggestion

Once fried, allow the bandeng tanpa duri to cool slightly before serving. This delightful dish can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, making it a wonderful addition to any meal or gathering.

Nutritional Information

This dish is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, bandeng tanpa duri is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Enjoy Cooking!

Embrace the culinary journey of creating this delightful Indonesian dish, and enjoy the flavors that come with every bite. Happy cooking!