From North SumatraFish & Seafood
Batak Spiced Carp (Arsik)
Arsik Ikan Mas
A Batak ceremonial dish of carp cooked with yellow spices, andaliman and asam cikala until the sauce reduces. Served at traditional ceremonies as a symbol of blessing.
- Time
- 1 hr 15 min
- Serves
- 4 people
- Origin
- North Sumatra
- Type
- Fish & Seafood
Ingredients
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Spice paste
How to Make
Rub the fish with lime juice and salt, leave 15 minutes, then rinse.
Grind the andaliman together with the spice paste.
Arrange lemongrass, long beans and Batak onions on the bottom of a pot.
Lay the fish on top and coat it all over with the paste.
Add the asam cikala and water.
Cook covered over low heat for about 45 minutes. Do not turn the fish; spoon the sauce over it instead.
Cook until the sauce reduces and thickens.
Kitchen tip
Andaliman is the soul of arsik. It is citrusy and slightly numbing, similar to Sichuan pepper. Buy it dried if fresh is not available.
Questions
Where does Batak Spiced Carp (Arsik) come from?
Arsik Ikan Mas is a traditional dish from North Sumatra (capital: Medan), in the Sumatra region of Indonesia.
How long does Batak Spiced Carp (Arsik) take to make?
It takes about 1 hr 15 min in total to make 4 servings, including preparation.
What is the secret to a good Batak Spiced Carp (Arsik)?
Andaliman is the soul of arsik. It is citrusy and slightly numbing, similar to Sichuan pepper. Buy it dried if fresh is not available.