Ikan Mas Kuah Kuning: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Dish
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Ikan Mas Kuah Kuning, a classic Indonesian dish that brings together the succulent taste of fish with the aromatic richness of spices and coconut milk. This dish is perfect for those looking to explore Southeast Asian cuisine, providing an explosion of taste and a beautiful presentation that will impress family and friends alike. Here’s how to create this flavorful dish that serves approximately 4 people.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh fish (Ikan Mas) | 1 kg |
| Lime (for marinating) | 1 piece |
| Coconut milk | 500 ml (from ½ coconut) |
| Galangal (smashed) | 1 piece (about 1-inch) |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Indonesian bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Seasoning (optional) | To taste |
| Cooking oil | 250 ml |
| Sugar (granulated) | ½ teaspoon |
| Bird’s eye chili | 15 pieces |
| Ripe tomato | 1 piece |
For the spice paste:
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Candlenuts | 5 pieces |
| Coriander seeds | ½ teaspoon |
| Ginger | 1 piece (about 1-inch) |
| Turmeric | 1 piece (about 1-inch) |
Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, follow these steps to prepare your Ikan Mas Kuah Kuning:
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Preparation of Fish: Start by cleaning the fish thoroughly under cold water. Once clean, rub the fish with lime juice and a sprinkle of salt. Allow it to marinate for approximately 15 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to eliminate any fishy odor.
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Frying the Fish: After marinating, heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the fish and fry until it turns golden brown and crispy on both sides. This process should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish. Once done, remove the fish from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
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Preparing the Spice Paste: In the same pan, remove some of the oil if necessary, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, coriander seeds, ginger, and turmeric into a blender or food processor. Blend them into a smooth paste, adding a splash of water if needed to facilitate blending.
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Cooking the Spice Paste: In the pan with the remaining oil, add the blended spice paste and sauté over medium heat. Continue to cook until the spices are fragrant and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
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Adding Aromatics: Once the spices are aromatic, add the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and galangal to the pan. Stir them in and let them infuse their flavors into the spice mixture for another 2 minutes.
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Combining Ingredients: Pour in the coconut milk, and add the chopped bird’s eye chilies and the diced tomato. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Final Touches: Gently place the fried fish back into the pan with the coconut milk mixture. Add salt, seasoning (if using), and sugar, stirring carefully to coat the fish in the sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the fish absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
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Serving: Remove the pan from heat. Transfer the fish and the aromatic sauce to a serving platter. This dish can be enjoyed hot with steamed rice or enjoyed as part of a larger Indonesian feast.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving (approx. 250g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Conclusion
Ikan Mas Kuah Kuning is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of flavors and textures that capture the essence of Indonesian culinary traditions. Each bite reveals the harmony of spice and freshness, making it an unforgettable addition to your dining experience. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe invites you to savor the joys of cooking and sharing delightful dishes with loved ones. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
