Indonesian fish recipes

Zesty Basil-Infused Nile Tilapia (Pindang Nila) Recipe

Published
Oct 28, 2024
Reading time
3 min
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Discover the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delightful recipe for Nila Masak Kemangi, also known as Pindang Nila, featuring tender Nile tilapia cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. This dish is not only quick to prepare, taking under 30 minutes, but it also bursts with fresh, zesty flavors that are sure to please your palate. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that combines the freshness of basil with the richness of the tilapia, creating a truly memorable dish.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Nile tilapia (cut into 3 pieces) 1 whole red tilapia
Wood ear mushrooms (sliced) To taste
Spices
Garlic (finely chopped) 1 clove
Shallots (thinly sliced) 2 pieces
Turmeric (mashed) 2 cm
Candlenuts (mashed) ½ piece
Ginger (crushed) 2 cm
Galangal (sliced) 1 slice
Bay leaf 1 leaf
Lemongrass (small stalk) 1 stalk
Garnishes
Basil leaves 1 handful
Tomato (cut into quarters) 1 piece
Green onion 1 stalk
Whole chili peppers (to taste) 3 pieces
Cooking oil 2 tablespoons
Water 500 ml
Pepper and salt To taste

Instructions

Step Instruction
1 Begin by preparing your intention for cooking; remember, cooking should always be a joyful experience! This recipe focuses on simplicity, opting for a clear broth version.
2 Heat the cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the sliced shallots and minced garlic until they become fragrant, releasing their wonderful aromas into the oil.
3 Once the shallots and garlic are aromatic, add the mashed turmeric and candlenuts to the pot, stirring to combine. Follow this by pouring in the water and allowing it to come to a gentle simmer.
4 As the water begins to heat, add the bay leaf, sliced galangal, crushed ginger, and the lemongrass stalk, allowing these flavors to infuse into the broth.
5 Next, gently place the tilapia pieces into the pot. Allow the fish to cook in the simmering broth until it becomes tender and fully cooked through.
6 Add the sliced wood ear mushrooms to the pot, stirring gently to combine, and season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
7 Finish the dish by adding the basil leaves, chopped green onion, and quartered tomatoes to the pot, allowing them to wilt slightly in the heat.
8 Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary, ensuring a balanced flavor profile that highlights the freshness of the herbs and spices.
9 Serve your Nila Masak Kemangi hot, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this quick and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Indonesian cuisine to your table!

Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories Approximately 280 kcal
Protein 25 g
Carbohydrates 10 g
Dietary Fiber 2 g
Total Fat 15 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 70 mg
Sodium 500 mg

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Nila Masak Kemangi, a recipe that not only nourishes the body but also brings joy and warmth to the heart. Perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish celebrates the essence of simple, home-cooked Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy!