Prepare your taste buds for a rollercoaster of flavours with our exciting Assam Pedas Fish recipe! In Malaysia and Indonesia, Assam Pedas Fish is often served during special occasions and family gatherings. It’s a dish that brings people together, symbolising warmth and hospitality. This dish is a symphony of tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet notes that will make your dinner an unforgettable experience. Let’s dive in!

What is Assam Pedas Fish?

Assam Pedas Fish, also known as “asam fish” or “garam assam fish,” is a popular Southeast Asian dish celebrated for its vibrant flavours. “Assam” (or “asam”) means sour in Malay, and “pedas” means spicy, perfectly describing the dish’s unique taste profile. The addition of pineapple gives this classic recipe a sweet twist, making it even more irresistible. And so, if on the net you find ‘Assam pedas fish recipe’ ‘Asam fish recipe’ or ‘Pineapple Assam Fish’, it refers to the same dish. 

Ingredients

Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this flavour-packed adventure:

• 500g Of FreshToHome Mackerel (you can use stingray/Thirandi or snapper too). Our fish are formalin & ammonia free and directly sourced from fisherfolk, guaranteeing you the freshest Assam stingray delicacy possible!
• 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 1 cup water
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
• 5-6 dried red chillies, soaked in warm water and blended
• 2 fresh red chillies, sliced
• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (belacan)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• 1 small pineapple, cut into chunks
• 2 tomatoes, quartered
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Step-by-Step Assam Fish Pineapple Version

1.
Fish Preparation
Season the fish lightly with salt and set it aside. If you’re using a stingray, make sure to remove any skin and bones. Then our mackerels will soon be taking a flavorful bath in our spicy, sour broth.

2.
Mix the Tamarind Juice
In a bowl, mix the tamarind paste with water to create tamarind juice. This tangy liquid gold is the heart of our Assam Pedas Fish recipe. Set it aside for now.

3.
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced ginger, and bruised lemongrass. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and your kitchen smells like an exotic spice market.

4.
Spice It Up
Add the blended dried red chillies and shrimp paste to the pot. Stir well to combine, and cook for about 5 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the chilli paste. 

5.
Add the Tamarind Juice
Pour the tamarind juice into the pot, stirring to combine all the aromatic ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. 

6.
Simmer the Fish
Gently add the fish pieces to the pot. Be careful not to stir too vigorously to avoid breaking the fish. Let the fish cook in the tangy broth for about 10 minutes. 

7.
Add Pineapple and Tomatoes
Throw in quartered tomatoes. The sweetness of the pineapple adds a delightful contrast to the sour and spicy broth. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the flavours are well blended.

8.
Season to Perfection
Add sugar and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning until you achieve the perfect balance of sour, spicy, and sweet. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Assam Pedas Fish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, which helps to balance the bold flavours. You can also serve it with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Pineapple Assam Fish: A Sweet Twist on Tradition

If you love a hint of sweetness in your dishes, the Pineapple Assam Fish recipe is a must-try. The pineapple not only adds a sweet note but also enhances the overall flavour profile, making the dish even more tantalising.

A Fun, Flavorful Feast

Cooking Assam Pedas Fish is more than just preparing a meal; it’s an adventure for your senses. The harmonious blend of sour, spicy, and sweet flavours makes it a standout in Southeast Asian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and embark on this fun and flavorful culinary journey!

By following this Assam Pedas Fish recipe, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious dish but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary traditions of Malaysia and Indonesia. Get ready for a meal that’s as fun and exciting to make as it is to eat. Happy cooking!

 

SUBMITTED BY:
Nikita Goswami
FreshToHome Customer, Since 2023
Fish Lover & Weekend Home Chef