Kare Ikan

Kare Ikan Recipe - Authentic Indonesian Fish Curry

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kare Ikan is a traditional Indonesian fish curry dish that is bursting with flavor and spices. This dish is perfect for those who love a good balance of savory and spicy flavors.

History

Kare Ikan has been a staple in Indonesian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the coastal regions of Indonesia, where fish is abundant and curry spices are commonly used in cooking.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
6 shallots, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground ginger
0.5 tsp powdered lemon grass
1 tsp chilli powder
1 salam leaf or bay leaf
0.5 tsp turmeric
0.5 cup tamarind water
1 cup coconut milk
2 tbsp vegetable oil
salt to taste
1 cucumber, sliced
mint leaves for garnish

How to prepare

Heat a small amount of oil in a sturdy frying pan and carefully brown the fish.
Meanwhile, in another frying pan, sauté the chopped shallots and garlic until they become tender.
Add the chili, ginger, turmeric, coriander, lemon grass, salam, salt, and tamarind water to the mixture.
Allow this mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, then add the fish.
Cover the pan and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
Serve the dish hot, garnished with thinly sliced cucumber and chopped mint (alternatively, add the cucumber and mint to the dish for the last 2 minutes of cooking).

Variations

Substitute the fish with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers or green beans for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the fish before adding it to the curry mixture to enhance the flavor.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference.

- Adding the cucumber and mint at the end of cooking adds a refreshing touch to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Kare Ikan is best served with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious curry sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the fish before adding it to the curry mixture helps enhance the flavor.

- Simmering the curry mixture allows the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef instead of fish for a different protein option.

- Substitute coconut milk with almond milk for a lighter version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Kare Ikan can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Kare Ikan with fresh mint leaves and thinly sliced cucumber for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Kare Ikan with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Kare Ikan is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Contains fish and coconut milk. May contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Kare Ikan is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Kare Ikan is a flavorful and aromatic Indonesian fish curry dish that is sure to impress. With a perfect balance of spices and savory flavors, this dish is a must-try for any curry lover.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was during one of my many travels to Indonesia, a country known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. I had the pleasure of staying with a local family in Bali, who graciously welcomed me into their home and shared their culinary secrets with me.

One evening, as I watched the matriarch of the family, Ibu Made, prepare dinner, I was mesmerized by her skill and precision in the kitchen. She moved with such grace and confidence, effortlessly chopping, stirring, and seasoning as she went. And the aromas that filled the air were simply intoxicating.

Ibu Made noticed my fascination and smiled warmly at me. "Would you like to learn how to make Kare Ikan?" she asked, holding up a vibrant bowl of curry that looked too good to resist. I nodded eagerly, eager to learn from this talented cook.

Over the next few days, Ibu Made patiently taught me the ins and outs of making Kare Ikan. She showed me how to select the freshest ingredients, from the plump fish fillets to the fragrant spices that would infuse the curry with flavor. She taught me the importance of cooking each component just right, so that the final dish would be a symphony of tastes and textures.

As we worked side by side in the kitchen, Ibu Made shared stories of her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her many years ago. She spoke fondly of the times they had spent together in the kitchen, laughing and chatting as they cooked up a storm. It was clear that cooking was not just a task for Ibu Made, but a labor of love that connected her to her family and heritage.

Ibu Made also told me about the origins of Kare Ikan, a dish that had been passed down through generations in her family. It was a recipe that had evolved over time, with each cook adding their own twist to make it uniquely their own. And now, she was passing it on to me, eager to share a piece of her culture and tradition with someone who appreciated it.

After days of practice and guidance from Ibu Made, I finally felt confident enough to make Kare Ikan on my own. As I stood over the stove, stirring the fragrant curry and watching as the fish cooked to perfection, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had mastered a dish that had once seemed so daunting, thanks to the patient teachings of Ibu Made.

When the time came to sit down and enjoy the fruits of my labor, Ibu Made beamed at me from across the table. "You have done well, my dear," she said, ladling a generous portion of Kare Ikan onto my plate. I took a bite, savoring the complex flavors and tender fish, and knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.

As I continued my travels and culinary adventures, I carried the recipe for Kare Ikan with me wherever I went. It became a signature dish that I would prepare for friends and family, eager to share a taste of Indonesia with those I loved. And each time I made it, I would think back to my time with Ibu Made, grateful for her guidance and the precious memories we had created together in the kitchen.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for Kare Ikan to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will embrace it with the same love and reverence that I have. May it bring you joy and connection to our family's culinary heritage, just as it has for me. And remember, the key to a delicious dish lies not just in the ingredients, but in the stories and traditions that accompany it. Enjoy, and happy cooking!