Asam Pedas is a traditional Malaysian dish known for its fiery and tangy flavors, featuring fish simmered in a rich, spicy broth made with tamarind, chilies, and aromatic spices. Hailing from the Malay Peninsula, this dish is a perfect harmony of sourness from tamarind and heat from fresh chilies, often served with rice to balance the intensity. It’s a staple in Malaysian households and a must-try for spice lovers. Follow this detailed, step-by-step recipe to recreate the authentic taste of Asam Pedas at home.
What is Asam Pedas?
Asam Pedas is a spicy and sour fish stew that showcases Malaysia’s love for bold flavors. The dish uses tamarind for its signature tang, paired with a blend of red chilies, turmeric, and lemongrass, creating a vibrant broth. Typically made with mackerel or stingray, it’s garnished with fresh herbs and served hot, making it a comforting yet exhilarating meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Dish
- 500g mackerel or stingray, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 2 tbsp tamarind pulp (soaked in 1 cup warm water)
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2cm ginger, sliced
- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
- 10 dried red chilies, soaked and deseeded
- 2 fresh red chilies, sliced
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 torch ginger bud (bunga kantan), halved (optional)
- 1 tomato, quartered
- 1 eggplant, cut into chunks
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 handful Vietnamese coriander (daun kesum)
For Garnish
- 1 red chili, sliced
- 1 sprig Vietnamese coriander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tamarind Juice
Soak the tamarind pulp in 1 cup of warm water for 10 minutes. Mash it with your fingers to extract the juice, then strain through a fine sieve. Discard the solids and set the tamarind juice aside.
Step 2: Blend the Spice Paste
In a blender, combine the soaked dried chilies, garlic, ginger, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and fennel seeds with a splash of water. Blend into a smooth paste. This aromatic base will give your Asam Pedas its distinctive flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Spice Paste
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the spice paste and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the oil separates and the mixture is fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Broth
Add the bruised lemongrass and torch ginger bud (if using) to the pot. Pour in 2 cups of water and the tamarind juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the tomato and eggplant, cooking for 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 5: Add the Fish
Gently place the fish pieces into the broth. Add salt, sugar, fresh red chilies, and Vietnamese coriander. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the flavors meld. Be careful not to stir too vigorously to avoid breaking the fish.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more salt or sugar if needed. The balance should be spicy, sour, and slightly sweet. Remove from heat once satisfied.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the Asam Pedas into bowls, ensuring each serving has fish, vegetables, and broth. Garnish with sliced red chili and a sprig of Vietnamese coriander. Serve hot with steamed rice to soak up the delicious broth.
Tips for Success
- Fish Choice: Mackerel or stingray works best, but any firm fish can be used.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of chilies to suit your heat preference.
- Tamarind Strength: Increase tamarind juice for a tangier flavor if desired.
- Fresh Herbs: Vietnamese coriander adds authenticity, but mint can substitute if unavailable.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg (varies based on seasoning)
- Key Nutrients: Rich in protein (from fish), vitamin C (from chilies and tamarind), and antioxidants (from spices).
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Final Thoughts
Asam Pedas is a vibrant celebration of Malaysian flavors, blending heat, sourness, and spice into a soul-warming dish. Its bold broth and tender fish make it a standout meal that’s both exciting and comforting. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or new to Malaysian cuisine, this recipe brings the essence of the region to your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and dive into the delicious world of Asam Pedas!
