Pesmol Ikan Nila: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Dish
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nile tilapia fish (cleaned and washed with salt and vinegar) | 1/2 kg (about 1.1 lbs) |
| Shallots (finely chopped) | 3 cloves |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 3 cloves |
| Candlenuts (blanched) | 4 pieces |
| Fresh turmeric (peeled and sliced) | 1 small piece (about 1 inch) |
| Fresh ginger (peeled and sliced) | 1 small piece (about 1 inch) |
| Galangal (peeled and sliced) | 1 small piece (about 1 inch) |
| Spring onions (sliced) | 2 stalks |
| Ripe tomatoes (chopped) | 1 piece |
| Carrot (cut into matchsticks) | 1 piece |
| Bird’s eye chilies (whole) | 10 pieces |
| Lime (juice only) | 1 piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
| Cooking oil | As needed for frying |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by thoroughly cleaning the Nile tilapia fish with salt and vinegar to remove any fishy odors, then rinse and set aside.
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Blend the Aromatics: In a food processor or mortar and pestle, blend the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, ginger, and galangal into a smooth paste. This mixture will serve as the flavor base for your pesmol.
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Sauté the Paste: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the blended paste to the hot oil and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden brown.
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Add Vegetables: Pour in a little water to create a sauce. Then, add the sliced carrots, chopped tomatoes, and spring onions to the pan. Stir well to combine and let it cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
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Season the Sauce: After the vegetables have softened, season the mixture with salt, sugar, and the juice of the lime. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
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Combine with Fish: Finally, add the fried Nile tilapia fish to the pan, ensuring it is well-coated with the aromatic sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the fish to absorb the delicious pesmol sauce.
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Serve: Once the fish is well-coated and the sauce has thickened slightly, transfer the pesmol ikan nila to a serving plate. Garnish with additional lime slices if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes for a delightful meal.
Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of this traditional Indonesian dish, which beautifully highlights the succulent taste of Nile tilapia fish, complemented by a medley of spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, pesmol ikan nila is sure to impress your guests and loved ones alike!
