Asam Pedas Patin Bumbu Kuning: A Flavorful Journey into Indonesian Cuisine
Asam Pedas Patin Bumbu Kuning is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the fresh flavors of the Patin fish with a tangy and aromatic yellow spice mix. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Indonesian cooking, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or special occasions. The interplay of sourness from the bilimbi fruit and the fragrant spices creates a culinary experience that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Indonesia.
Ingredients
The following table outlines the fresh ingredients and spices needed to create this delectable dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the unique flavors of Asam Pedas Patin Bumbu Kuning.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Patin fish | 1 fish, cut into 6 pieces |
| Lime juice (from jeruk nipis) | 1 fruit |
| Lemongrass (sereh), bruised | 2 stalks |
| Galangal (lengkuas), bruised | 2 cm |
| Salam leaves | 2 leaves |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | 3 leaves |
| Okra, cut in half | 150 g |
| Carrots, cut thick | 2 pieces |
| Green onions (daun bawang), sliced | 1 stalk |
| Basil (kemangi), leaves separated | 3 stalks |
| Tomato, quartered | 1 piece |
| Bilimbi fruit (belimbing wuluh), sliced | 10 pieces |
| Chili peppers (cabe jablay), sliced | 5 pieces |
Spice Paste:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Turmeric, chopped | 2 cm |
| Ginger, chopped | 3 cm |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 8 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 6 cloves |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 3 pieces |
| Coriander seeds (ketumbar) | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Flavoring (penyedap) | To taste |
| Cooking oil | For sautéing |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
This dish is crafted through a series of thoughtful steps that ensure the fish absorbs all the vibrant flavors from the spices and vegetables. Follow the steps below to create your own Asam Pedas Patin Bumbu Kuning:
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Prepare the Fish:
- Start by cleaning the Patin fish thoroughly, ensuring that its belly is completely empty. Rinse the fish well to remove any slimy residue. Use the juice of the lime and a sprinkle of salt to marinate the fish, letting it sit for about 15 minutes. This step not only cleans the fish but also adds a layer of flavor.
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Make the Spice Paste:
- While the fish is marinating, blend the turmeric, ginger, shallots, garlic, candlenuts, and coriander seeds in a food processor until a smooth paste forms.
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Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground spice paste along with the bruised lemongrass, salam leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. Sauté these ingredients until they become fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the spice mixture, about 5–7 minutes.
-
Add Water and Vegetables:
- Pour in enough water to create a broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the sliced bilimbi fruit and thickly cut carrots. Allow the mixture to simmer until the carrots become tender.
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Incorporate the Fish:
- Gently add the marinated Patin fish pieces to the pot, taking care not to break them. Season with salt, flavoring, and sugar, adjusting to taste. Avoid stirring too frequently to prevent the fish from breaking apart. Let the fish simmer gently in the broth.
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Final Touches:
- As the fish cooks and absorbs the flavors, after about 10 minutes, add the okra, allowing it to cook for a few more minutes. Taste the broth to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Add Fresh Herbs and Serve:
- Just before serving, stir in the basil leaves, sliced green onions, and quartered tomatoes. Allow the dish to cook for another minute before removing it from the heat.
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Serve:
- Serve the Asam Pedas Patin Bumbu Kuning hot, accompanied by steamed rice to soak up the delicious, tangy broth. Enjoy this fragrant dish with family and friends, and relish the flavors of Indonesia in every bite.
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods, here is a general overview of the nutritional benefits associated with the ingredients used in Asam Pedas Patin Bumbu Kuning.
| Nutrient | Estimated Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300-350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Conclusion
Asam Pedas Patin Bumbu Kuning is not just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing together the warmth of home-cooked food with the zest of Indonesian flavors. The combination of fresh fish, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both comforting and invigorating. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this recipe promises to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful dish!
