Pallumara Ikan Kembung: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Stew
Pallumara Ikan Kembung is a delightful Indonesian dish featuring mackerel fish cooked in a tangy and aromatic broth infused with spices, garlic, and chilies. This recipe highlights the delicate flavors of ikan kembung (mackerel) while providing a comforting and nutritious meal. Whether served with rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish captures the essence of Indonesian culinary traditions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan kembung (mackerel) | 1/2 kg (about 1 lb) |
| Fresh turmeric | 1 small piece (kelingking size) |
| Red shallots | 10 cloves |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Tamarind water | To taste (depending on your preference) |
| Whole bird’s eye chilies | 15 (or to taste) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 750 ml (approximately 3 cups) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Start by cleaning the ikan kembung thoroughly. Remove the entrails and gills, then rinse the fish under cold running water. To enhance its flavor, rub the fish with fresh lemon juice and let it marinate for a few minutes. Afterward, rinse it again to remove any remaining residue.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the fresh turmeric and salt until they form a smooth paste. Transfer this mixture to a small pot and add enough water to create a slightly runny consistency.
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Cook the Fish: Place the prepared fish into the pot with the turmeric paste and add 750 ml of water. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the fish to cook through and absorb the flavors.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a separate skillet over low heat, sauté the sliced red shallots and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent. Add the whole bird’s eye chilies and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the chilies soften and the aromatics are well-combined.
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Combine and Simmer: Once the fish is cooked, transfer the sautéed shallots, garlic, and chilies into the pot with the fish. Add the tamarind water, adjusting the amount to suit your taste for acidity. Bring everything back to a gentle boil for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Serve: Once the broth is fragrant and flavorful, remove the pot from the heat. Your Pallumara Ikan Kembung is now ready to be served! Enjoy this dish hot with steamed rice or on its own, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
Pallumara Ikan Kembung offers a refreshing taste that embodies the vibrant culinary landscape of Indonesia. Its unique blend of spices and the tangy flavor from tamarind makes it a must-try for anyone looking to explore traditional Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with family and friends!
