Pangek Ikan: A Sour and Spicy Fish Stew from Padang That Will Warm Your Soul

Pangek Ikan is a traditional dish from Padang, a city located in West Sumatra, Indonesia. This spicy and sour fish stew is a popular comfort food that is perfect for cold days or when you need a warming and hearty meal.

The dish is made by cooking fish, usually mackerel or tuna, in a flavorful mixture of spices, herbs, and coconut milk. The key to making a delicious Pangek Ikan is to use fresh fish and a blend of spices that perfectly balances the sourness and spiciness.

Here's a simple recipe for Pangek Ikan that you can try at home:

Ingredients:

• 500g mackerel or tuna fillets
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
• 2 turmeric leaves
• 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Spice Paste:

• 6 shallots
• 4 garlic cloves
• 5 red chillies
• 5 bird's eye chillies
• 1 inch ginger
• 1 inch galangal

Instructions:

1. Clean and wash the fish fillets, then cut them into pieces.
2. Grind all the spice paste ingredients using a mortar and pestle or a food processor until smooth.
3. Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant.
4. Add the kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and turmeric leaves, and stir for a few seconds.
5. Add the coconut milk, tamarind paste, salt, and sugar, and stir until well combined.
6. Add the fish pieces to the pan and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Pangek Ikan is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. It's a must-try if you're a fan of spicy and sour flavors, or if you're looking to explore the rich and diverse cuisine of Indonesia.

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