Lempah Kuning Ikan Kembung
Introduction
Lempah Kuning Ikan Kembung is a traditional Indonesian dish that embodies the vibrant flavors and aromas of Southeast Asian cuisine. This delightful fish stew, characterized by its tangy and slightly spicy broth, is not just a meal but a culinary experience that transports you to the heart of Indonesia with every spoonful. With the freshness of ikan kembung (mackerel) paired with the sweetness of pineapple and a medley of aromatic spices, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or any gathering where you wish to impress your guests.

Ingredients
Here is a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable dish:
Ingredients | Quantity |
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Ikan Kembung (Mackerel) | 500 grams |
Pineapple, cut into chunks | 1 whole |
Lemongrass (Sereh) | 1 stalk |
Galangal (Lengkuas) | 1 piece |
Bay Leaves (Daun Salam) | 2-3 leaves |
Tamarind (Asam Jawa) | 1 tablespoon |
Bird’s Eye Chili (Cabe Rawit) | 3-5 pieces |
Ground Spices | |
Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 4 cloves |
Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 14 shallots |
Shrimp Paste (Terasi Bangka) | 1 tablespoon |
Large Red Chilies (Cabe Merah Besar) | 6 chilies |
Red Bird’s Eye Chili (Cabe Rawit Merah) | 6 chilies |
Turmeric (Kunyit) | 2 pieces |
Candlenuts (Kemiri) | 5 nuts |
Seasoning | |
Sugar | to taste |
Salt | to taste |
Water | as needed |
Cooking Oil | for sautéing |
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and cooking methods, here is a general overview of the nutritional information per serving (based on a total of four servings):
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | Approximately 250 |
Protein | 25 grams |
Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
Fat | 10 grams |
Fiber | 2 grams |
Sodium | Varies (depends on salt added) |
Instructions
To prepare this mouthwatering Lempah Kuning Ikan Kembung, follow these detailed steps to ensure a delightful dining experience:
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Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, add the pineapple chunks along with the tamarind paste. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. The sweetness of the pineapple combined with the tanginess of the tamarind will create a beautifully flavored broth.
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Infuse with Aromatics: Once the broth is boiling, add the lemongrass, galangal, and bay leaves to the pot. These aromatic herbs will add depth and fragrance to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile. Allow the mixture to simmer gently while you prepare the spices.
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Sauté the Ground Spices: In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the ground spices—garlic, shallots, shrimp paste, large red chilies, red bird’s eye chilies, turmeric, and candlenuts. Sauté them until fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it unlocks the essential oils in the spices, enriching the dish with their robust flavors.
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Combine and Season: Carefully transfer the sautéed spice mixture into the pot with the pineapple broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with sugar and salt according to your preference. The balance of sweetness and saltiness is key to achieving a harmonious flavor in the final dish.
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Cook the Fish: Before adding the fish, ensure that it has been cleaned and marinated with some lime or lemon juice to remove any fishy odor. Gently place the marinated ikan kembung into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is thoroughly cooked and fragrant. Be careful not to overcook, as fish can become tough if left too long in the heat.
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Serve Hot: Once cooked, ladle the Lempah Kuning Ikan Kembung into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good portion of the fish and aromatic broth. This dish is best enjoyed hot, served with steamed rice on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
Lempah Kuning Ikan Kembung is a delightful dish that showcases the richness of Indonesian flavors, and the careful combination of ingredients makes it a memorable culinary experience. With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, whether for special occasions or a cozy family meal. Enjoy this delicious fish stew with loved ones, and let the flavors of Indonesia warm your heart and soul.