Patin Asam Pedas: A Spicy and Tangy Catfish Delight
Patin Asam Pedas is a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully marries the rich flavors of catfish with a zesty and spicy broth. Perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors, this recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a unique taste of Southeast Asian cuisine. Let’s dive into this vibrant dish that’s sure to please any palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Catfish (Ikan Patin) | 1 whole fish |
| Tomatoes | 2 pieces (quartered) |
| Bird’s eye chilies (Cabe Rawit) | 5 pieces |
| Lime (Jeruk Nipis) | 1 (juiced) |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 3 cloves (chopped) |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 2 cloves (chopped) |
| Water | 500 ml |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer | To taste |
| Ground pepper | To taste |
| Basil leaves (Daun Kemangi) | To garnish |
Instructions
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Prepare the Catfish: Start by thoroughly cleaning the catfish, then cut it into manageable pieces for cooking. This will help the fish absorb the flavors of the broth more effectively.
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Prepare the Vegetables: Quarter the tomatoes and set them aside. Squeeze the lime to extract its juice, discarding any seeds.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Finely chop the shallots and garlic. In a pan, heat some oil and sauté the chopped shallots and garlic until they turn golden and fragrant. This step will create a flavorful base for your dish.
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Boil the Fish: In a pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the catfish pieces and let them cook until they are tender and cooked through. This process typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Combine the Flavors: Once the fish is cooked, add the quartered tomatoes, sliced bird’s eye chilies, and the sautéed shallots and garlic into the pot. Pour in the lime juice, and season the broth with sugar, salt, flavor enhancer, and ground pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are combined.
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Final Touches: Allow the dish to simmer until all the flavors meld together and the tomatoes soften, which should take another 5-7 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for an aromatic finish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Patin Asam Pedas into bowls and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, balancing the spiciness and tanginess with the neutral flavor of the rice.
Patin Asam Pedas is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings a taste of Indonesia to your kitchen. With its combination of fresh ingredients and bold spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful recipe that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine!
