Nasi Serpang: A Symphony of Flavors on a Plate from Madura




When it comes to the unique culinary delights of Bangkalan, Madura, Nasi Serpang is a dish you simply cannot miss. The name "Serpang" refers to a village in Bangkalan where this dish first gained its fame. At its core, Nasi Serpang is a quintessential Madurese mixed-rice dish, where fluffy white rice is served with an abundant and artfully arranged variety of side dishes. This combination creates a rich harmony of flavors and textures in every single bite.

The true magic of Nasi Serpang lies in its lavish assortment of accompaniments. On a single plate, you can find a delicious combination of:

  • Pepes Ikan Tongkol: Spiced and steamed tuna, cooked inside a banana leaf to lock in all its rich flavors.
  • Sambal Goreng Kerang: Clams stir-fried in a hot and spicy chili paste.
  • Dendeng Sapi: Sweet and savory dried beef jerky.
  • Sohun Goreng: Fried glass noodles seasoned with soy sauce.
  • Telur Asin: Salted duck egg, adding a distinct savory note.
  • Rempeyek: A crispy cracker made from peanuts or shrimp.
  • Serundeng: A sprinkle of sweet and savory toasted grated coconut.

Each component is prepared with its own distinct seasonings and cooking method, yet when they come together on the plate, they complement one another perfectly, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Nasi Serpang is more than just a meal; it's a representation of the rich and authentic flavors of Madurese cuisine.

Nasi Serpang Recipe: Make it at Home

While it may seem complex due to the number of side dishes, you can easily create a simplified version of Nasi Serpang at home by focusing on a few key components.

Main Ingredients:

  • Steamed white rice
  • Salted duck eggs (pre-made)
  • Rempeyek (pre-made)
  • Serundeng (pre-made or toasted shredded coconut)

Ingredients for Pepes Ikan Tongkol (Serves 2):

  • 2 medium-sized pieces of tuna
  • Banana leaves for wrapping
  • Toothpicks or skewers

Pepes Spice Paste:

  • 6 shallots
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 3 large red chilies (adjust to taste)
  • 3 cm fresh turmeric
  • 2 cm fresh ginger
  • 1 stalk of lemongrass, use the white part
  • ½ tsp coriander powder
  • Salt and sugar to taste

Ingredients for Sambal Goreng Kerang (Serves 2):

  • 250 grams clams, boiled and cleaned
  • Cooking oil

Sambal Goreng Kerang Spice Paste:

  • 6 shallots
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 5-7 red curly chilies (adjust to taste)
  • 3 red bird's eye chilies (optional, for extra heat)
  • 2 cm galangal
  • 1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised
  • 2 lime leaves
  • Salt, sugar, and a dash of sweet soy sauce to taste

Instructions:

  1. Make the Pepes Ikan Tongkol:
    • Blend all the pepes spices until you have a smooth paste. Mix the paste with the fish and let it marinate for a few minutes.
    • Take a banana leaf, place a piece of marinated fish on it, and wrap it tightly. Secure the ends with toothpicks or skewers.
    • Steam the wrapped fish for about 20-30 minutes until it's cooked through.
  2. Make the Sambal Goreng Kerang:
    • Blend all the sambal spice ingredients except for the lemongrass and lime leaves.
    • Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the spice paste until fragrant. Add the bruised lemongrass and lime leaves and stir well.
    • Add the boiled clams and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
    • Season with salt, sugar, and a little sweet soy sauce. Cook for a few more minutes until the flavors are well-blended.
  3. Assemble the Nasi Serpang:
    • On a serving plate, place a generous portion of warm rice.
    • Arrange the Pepes Ikan Tongkol and Sambal Goreng Kerang neatly around the rice.
    • Add slices of salted egg, rempeyek, and a sprinkle of serundeng.
    • Your Nasi Serpang is ready to be enjoyed!

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