Sop Ikan Nila Kemangi: A Refreshing Indonesian Fish Soup

Sop Ikan Nila Kemangi, or Nila Fish Soup with Basil, is a delightful and aromatic dish that showcases the rich flavors of Indonesia. This vibrant soup is perfect for a cozy meal, bringing together tender fish and fragrant herbs in a soothing broth. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe, which combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a bowl of comfort that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 1 kg Nila Fish (medium size), cleaned and scaled
• 2-inch piece Ginger, smashed
• 1-inch piece Turmeric, blended or ground
• 1-inch piece Galangal, smashed
• 3 stalks Lemongrass, smashed
• 2 large Shallots, roughly sliced
• 2 cloves Garlic, roughly sliced
• 3 pieces Kaffir Lime Leaves
• 1 medium Green Tomato, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Tamarind Water
• Chives or Spring Onions, diagonally sliced
• Chili Peppers, to taste, sliced diagonally
• Salt, to taste
• Sugar, to taste
• Juice of 1 Lime
• Water, as needed

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by marinating the Nila fish with lime juice, allowing the flavors to penetrate while also tenderizing the fish.

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2. Combine Aromatics: In a pot, combine the sliced shallots, garlic, lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, galangal, salt, sugar, and tamarind water with enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the aromas to infuse the broth.

3. Cook the Fish: Once the broth reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the marinated fish and the chopped green tomato. Allow it to simmer until the fish is cooked through, approximately 10-15 minutes.

4. Add Fresh Herbs: When the fish is nearly done, stir in the basil leaves and sliced chives. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich broth beautifully.

5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, sugar, or lime juice according to your preference.

6. Serve: Your Sop Ikan Nila Kemangi is now ready to be served! Ladle the fragrant soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of fish and herbs.

Enjoying Your Dish

This comforting soup is best enjoyed hot and can be paired with steamed rice or enjoyed on its own as a light meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices creates a unique flavor profile that embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect for any occasion, Sop Ikan Nila Kemangi will surely warm your heart and delight your palate.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional details may vary, this dish is generally low in calories and rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals from the fish and vegetables used, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

With its vibrant flavors and health benefits, Sop Ikan Nila Kemangi is a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking to explore Indonesian cuisine or simply want a hearty soup to warm your day, this recipe is sure to impress!