Cara Bikin Otak Otak: A Delicious Indonesian Snack Recipe

>Hello Sohib EditorOnline, are you a fan of Indonesian cuisine? If you are, then you must have heard about otak otak. Otak otak is a delicious snack made of fish and spices wrapped in banana leaves. It is a popular snack all over Indonesia, and it’s perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will guide you on how to make otak otak. So, let’s get started!

What is Otak Otak?

Otak otak is a traditional Indonesian snack made of fish, mixed with spices such as lemongrass, chili, and turmeric. The mixture is then wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over charcoal. Otak otak is usually served with peanut sauce, and it is a popular snack in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The History of Otak Otak

There is no exact record of when otak otak was first created, but it is believed that it originated from Palembang, a city in South Sumatra, Indonesia. Otak otak was traditionally made with freshwater fish caught from the Musi River in Palembang.

Later, the recipe spread throughout Indonesia, and people started using different types of fish, such as mackerel, tuna, and snapper. Today, otak otak is enjoyed all over Indonesia and is considered one of the country’s traditional snacks.

Ingredients Needed for Otak Otak

Before we start making otak otak, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need:

Ingredients	Quantity
Fish fillets	500 grams
Garlic	5 cloves
Shallots	5
Lemongrass	3 stalks
Red chili	5
Turmeric powder	1 tablespoon
Coconut milk	200 ml
Tapioca starch	2 tablespoons
Banana leaves	10

Tips for Choosing the Right Fish

When making otak otak, it is important to choose the right type of fish. Here are some tips:

• Choose fresh fish. Fresh fish is essential for the best flavor and texture.
• Choose fish with firm flesh. Soft fish may fall apart during grilling.
• Choose boneless fish fillets. It is easier to grind and mix boneless fish fillets.

How to Make Otak Otak

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Leaves

Before we start making the otak otak mixture, we need to prepare the banana leaves. Here’s how:

1. Wash the banana leaves, and cut them into 25 cm x 25 cm squares.
2. Blanch the banana leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to make them pliable.
3. Rinse the banana leaves in cold water, and wipe them dry with a clean cloth. Set aside for later.

Step 2: Make the Otak Otak Mixture

Now, let’s make the otak otak mixture:

1. Remove the skin and bones from the fish fillets, and cut them into small pieces.
2. Grind the fish fillets using a food processor or a mortar and pestle until smooth.
3. Peel the garlic and shallots, and chop them finely.
4. Remove the tough outer layer of the lemongrass, and chop the tender part finely.
5. Remove the stems and seeds from the red chili, and chop them finely.
6. Add the garlic, shallots, lemongrass, red chili, turmeric powder, coconut milk, and tapioca starch to the ground fish, and mix well.

Step 3: Wrap and Grill the Otak Otak

Now, let’s wrap and grill the otak otak:

1. Take a banana leaf square, and place 2-3 tablespoons of the otak otak mixture in the center.
2. Fold the banana leaf to make a rectangular package, and secure the edges with toothpicks or string.
3. Repeat the process with the remaining otak otak mixture and banana leaves.
4. Grill the otak otak over a charcoal fire for 5-10 minutes on each side until cooked.
5. Remove the toothpicks or string before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best fish to use for otak otak?

The best fish to use for otak otak is a firm-fleshed white fish such as mackerel, tuna, or snapper.

2. Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but make sure they are thawed completely before using them.

3. Can I use different spices?

Yes, you can use different spices according to your taste. However, lemongrass, chili, and turmeric powder are the key ingredients that give otak otak its unique flavor.

4. How long can I keep otak otak in the fridge?

Once cooked, you can keep otak otak in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before eating, reheat it in the oven or microwave.

5. Can I freeze otak otak?

Yes, you can freeze otak otak for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then grill over charcoal or bake in the oven.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you have learned how to make otak otak, a delicious Indonesian snack that is perfect for any occasion. Remember, otak otak is traditionally grilled over charcoal, but you can also bake it in the oven or cook it on a stove. Serve it with peanut sauce, and enjoy!

Cara Bikin Otak Otak: A Delicious Indonesian Snack Recipe