Zesty Indonesian Pindang Ikan Nila: Savory Tilapia in Spiced Tamarind Broth

Pindang Ikan Nila: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Dish

Pindang Ikan Nila is a delightful Indonesian dish featuring the fresh and succulent tilapia fish, known locally as ikan nila. This recipe combines vibrant spices and aromatic ingredients to create a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide to preparing this flavorful dish.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by selecting fresh ikan nila, ensuring it’s cleaned properly. Rub the fish with lime juice and sprinkle salt over it, allowing it to marinate for a short while to enhance its flavor.

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2. Make the Spice Paste: Gather your spices for grinding. In a blender or mortar, combine the large red chili, garlic, shallots, and fresh turmeric. Blend or pound these ingredients together until a smooth paste forms, releasing their aromatic essence.

3. Sauté the Spices: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, releasing the beautiful flavors of the spices into the oil.

4. Add Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes (or starfruit) into the pot, stirring them in until they soften and blend into the spice mixture.

5. Cook the Fish: Gently place the marinated ikan nila into the pot, ensuring that the fish is well coated with the spices. Pour in the water, making sure the fish is submerged.

6. Season and Simmer: Allow the dish to simmer on medium heat. As it cooks, the flavors will meld beautifully. Season with additional salt to taste, adjusting according to your preference.

7. Serve: Once the fish is cooked through and the spices have penetrated, remove the pot from heat. Serve the Pindang Ikan Nila hot, accompanied by steamed rice and your favorite side dishes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This Pindang Ikan Nila recipe offers a flavorful journey through Indonesian cuisine, perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Enjoy the vibrant taste and the health benefits of this delightful fish dish, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire!