Pesmol Ikan Nila: A Flavorful Indonesian Dish
Pesmol Ikan Nila is a delightful Indonesian fish dish that combines the freshness of local ingredients with aromatic spices, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dining table. This recipe is simple to follow and offers a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering meal!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Medium-sized Nile fish (ikan nila) | 2 pieces |
Tomato | 1 piece |
Lime (to eliminate fishy smell) | 1 piece |
Green onion (sliced diagonally) | 1 stalk |
Bird’s eye chili (sliced diagonally) | 5 pieces |
Carrot (cut into matchsticks) | 1 piece |
Cucumber (cut into matchsticks) | 1 piece |
Lemongrass (smashed) | 1 stalk |
Bay leaf | 1 leaf |
Kaffir lime leaf | 1 leaf |
Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
Water | As needed |
Sugar | To taste |
Salt | To taste |
Ground Spices
Spice | Quantity |
---|---|
Garlic | 3 cloves |
Shallots | 5 cloves |
Candlenuts | 2 pieces |
Ginger | 2 cm |
Turmeric | 2 cm |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by cleaning the Nile fish thoroughly. Rub the fish with lime juice and a sprinkle of salt to eliminate any fishy odor. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes. -
Fry the Fish:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the marinated fish into the hot oil, frying until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Once cooked, remove the fish from the pan and set them aside to drain excess oil. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, reduce the heat slightly and add the ground spices (garlic, shallots, candlenuts, ginger, and turmeric). Sauté until fragrant, then add the bay leaf, kaffir lime leaf, smashed lemongrass, and sliced bird’s eye chili. Continue to cook until the mixture is aromatic. -
Add Liquids and Vegetables:
Pour in the water and a splash of vinegar to the sautéed spices. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes. Then, add the fried fish, along with the matchstick-cut carrots and cucumbers. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. -
Adjust the Seasoning:
Taste the sauce and adjust the flavor with sugar and salt according to your preference. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Serve:
Transfer the Pesmol Ikan Nila to a serving dish. Garnish with slices of fresh tomato and additional green onions if desired. This dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice and a side of your favorite sambal for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | Approximately 220 |
Protein | 25g |
Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sodium | 350mg |
Conclusion
Pesmol Ikan Nila is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and tradition. With its vibrant colors and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary journey with this delightful Indonesian classic, perfect for any occasion!