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| Sate Bandeng Recipe |
Sate Bandeng, or milkfish satay, is a distinctive dish hailing from Banten, Indonesia. This traditional delicacy transforms the bony milkfish into a boneless, flavorful treat, making it a must-try for culinary enthusiasts seeking authentic Indonesian flavors.
Ingredients:
Main Components:
- 2 medium-sized milkfish (approximately 1.5 pounds total)
- 1 cup grated coconut, toasted
- 1 cup thick coconut milk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Banana leaves for wrapping (optional)
Spice Paste:
- 8 shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 red chilies
- 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric, roasted
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 1-inch piece of galangal
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
Preparation Steps:
Prepare the Fish:
- Clean the fish by removing scales, gills, and internal organs through the gill opening, keeping the body intact.
- Gently pound the fish to loosen the flesh without breaking the skin.
- Break the backbone near the tail and extract the bones through the gill opening.
- Scoop out the flesh, ensuring the skin remains whole.
Process the Fish Flesh:
- Sauté the extracted fish flesh in a dry pan over medium heat until it firms up.
- Remove any remaining fine bones.
- Prepare the Spice Paste:
- Blend all spice paste ingredients into a smooth mixture.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed fish flesh, spice paste, toasted grated coconut, beaten eggs, coconut milk, salt, and sugar until well combined.
Stuff the Fish:
- Carefully fill the fish skin with the mixture, reshaping it to its original form.
Wrap and Cook:
- Optionally, wrap the stuffed fish in banana leaves and secure with bamboo skewers.
- Grill the fish over medium heat, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and the exterior is golden brown.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve Sate Bandeng hot, accompanied by steamed rice and a side of sambal (Indonesian chili paste) for an authentic dining experience.
Cultural Insight:
Sate Bandeng is a testament to Indonesian culinary ingenuity, particularly in Banten, where locals have mastered the art of deboning milkfish—a fish known for its numerous fine bones—to create this delectable dish. The use of aromatic spices and coconut reflects the rich flavors characteristic of Indonesian cuisine.
Experience Indonesian Cuisine:
Exploring dishes like Sate Bandeng offers a glimpse into Indonesia's diverse culinary heritage. Whether you're a food enthusiast or a home cook eager to try new recipes, Sate Bandeng provides a delicious journey into the heart of Indonesian flavors.
Note: For an authentic touch, sourcing traditional Indonesian ingredients such as fresh turmeric, galangal, and banana leaves is recommended. These can often be found in Asian grocery stores.
For more information about Sate Bandeng, you can refer to its Wikipedia page or check out the video below.
