Are you a fan of traditional Malaysian cuisine? If so, then you must try the delectable dish called Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat. This flavorful squid dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With its rich, dark gravy and tender squid, Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat is a dish that will surely leave you wanting more.
Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat, also known as Black Ink Squid, is a popular dish in Malaysia, especially in the coastal regions. The dish gets its name from the dark, black gravy that is made from squid ink. The ink gives the dish a unique flavor and color that is both appetizing and visually appealing. Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat is often served with steamed rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh squid
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 red chili peppers, sliced
- 2 tablespoons squid ink
- 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Clean the squid thoroughly, remove the head and tentacles, and cut the body into rings.
- In a large pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced chili peppers to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the squid rings to the pan and cook for about 2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the squid ink, tamarind paste, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into the pan and stir well to coat the squid evenly.
- Cover the pan and let the squid simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the squid is tender.
- Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat hot with steamed rice.
Nutrition:
Here is the estimated nutritional information for a serving of Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
When it comes to cooking Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat, the key is in using fresh squid. It is important to clean the squid thoroughly, removing the head, tentacles, and internal organs. Once cleaned, the squid body can be cut into rings, which will be the main ingredient in this flavorful dish.
Choosing the Right Squid
When selecting squid for Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat, it is best to choose fresh squid that is firm and has a pleasant ocean smell. Look for squid that has clear eyes, a shiny skin, and is not slimy. If fresh squid is not available, frozen squid can be used as a substitute. However, make sure to properly defrost the squid before cooking to ensure a tender texture.
Preparing the Squid
Before cooking the squid, it is important to clean it thoroughly. Start by removing the squid head and tentacles. Next, carefully remove the internal organs, being careful not to rupture the ink sac. The ink sac can be set aside to be used later in the recipe. Once the squid is cleaned, it can be cut into rings, which will cook quickly and evenly.
Creating the Flavorful Gravy
The rich, dark gravy of Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat is what sets it apart from other squid dishes. The key ingredient in the gravy is the squid ink, which gives the dish its distinct color and flavor. To make the gravy, start by sautéing finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced chili peppers in cooking oil until the onion becomes translucent.
Once the onions are cooked, add the squid rings to the pan and cook for a couple of minutes to seal in the flavors. In a separate bowl, mix together the squid ink, tamarind paste, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt. This mixture will be poured into the pan and stirred well to evenly coat the squid. The pan is then covered, and the squid is allowed to simmer in the flavorful gravy for about 15-20 minutes, or until it becomes tender and fully cooked.
Serving Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat
Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat is traditionally served hot with steamed rice. The tender squid rings, coated in the rich, black gravy, are a perfect accompaniment to the fluffy rice. For added flavor and texture, garnish the dish with some fresh herbs, such as chopped cilantro or spring onions.
Nutrition:
When it comes to nutrition, Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat is a relatively healthy dish. Squid is a good source of protein and low in calories. The dish is also low in carbohydrates and fat, making it a suitable option for those watching their calorie intake or looking for a balanced meal.
Here is the estimated nutritional information for a serving of Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
It is important to note that the nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion size. To make the dish even healthier, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
In conclusion, Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat is a flavorful and satisfying dish that showcases the unique flavors of Malaysian cuisine. With its dark, rich gravy and tender squid, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're a fan of seafood or simply love trying new dishes, Sotong Masak Hitam Pekat is a must-try. So, gather the ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy a taste of Malaysia in the comfort of your own home.