Bandeng Kuah Asam | Spicy Sour Milkfish Soup
Introduction:
Experience the tantalizing flavors of Bandeng Kuah Asam, a traditional Indonesian dish that brings together the delicate taste of milkfish with a zesty, spicy broth. Perfectly balancing sour and spicy notes, this recipe is both refreshing and satisfying, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of flavors as we prepare this savory soup.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milkfish (Ikan Bandeng) | 2 whole fish |
| Red onions (Bawang Merah) | 4 cloves, sliced |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 2 cloves, sliced |
| Ginger (Jahe) | 2 pieces, thinly sliced |
| Tamarind (Asam Jawa) | 1 teaspoon, diluted in water |
| Tomato (Tomat) | 1, cut into 6 pieces |
| Green onions (Daun Bawang) | 2 stalks, sliced into 3 cm pieces |
| Turmeric powder (Kunyit Bubuk) | 1/4 teaspoon (or 2 pieces, thinly sliced) |
| Kaffir lime leaves (Daun Jeruk) | 1-2 leaves |
| Bay leaf (Daun Salam) | 1 leaf |
| Lime juice (Air Jeruk Nipis) | 2 tablespoons (optional) |
| Bird’s eye chilies (Cabe Rawit) | 10, sliced |
| Salt | To taste |
| Beef seasoning (Royco Sapi) | To taste (optional) |
| Water | 3-4 glasses |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
Start by cleaning the milkfish thoroughly. Once cleaned, cut the fish into three equal parts and marinate with lime juice. Set aside to allow the flavors to infuse. -
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant and the onions turn translucent. -
Add Liquid:
Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. This will create a flavorful base for your soup. -
Cook the Fish:
Once the water is boiling, gently add the fish pieces into the pot. Stir to ensure that the fish is well-coated with the aromatic broth. Season with salt and optional beef seasoning. Add the tamarind water and optional lime juice, then allow the soup to simmer until the fish is cooked through. -
Final Touches:
Add in the sliced tomato, green onions, turmeric, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaf, and the sliced chilies. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes until all the flavors meld together. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. -
Serve:
The broth should have a delightful balance of sourness and spiciness, providing a refreshing kick to each sip. Serve hot, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this delicious Bandeng Kuah Asam.
Enjoy Your Cooking Adventure!
This Bandeng Kuah Asam recipe is sure to bring a taste of Indonesia to your dining table, combining fresh ingredients with simple techniques to create a dish that’s both comforting and exhilarating. Whether enjoyed on its own or accompanied by steamed rice, this soup is bound to delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!
