Plukkfisk with a Southeast Asian Twist

Ingredients

In this Southeast Asian adaptation of Plukkfisk, we incorporate traditional spices and flavors from the region. The original Norwegian dish is typically made with simple ingredients like fish, potatoes, and onions, while our version adds a Southeast Asian twist with the inclusion of chili, lemongrass, ginger, and garlic. Additionally, we serve the Plukkfisk with fragrant coconut rice, which enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a creamy texture to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Plukkfisk, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets, such as cod or haddock 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets, such as cod or haddock
• 500g (1.1 lb) potatoes, peeled and diced 500g (1.1 lb) potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red chili, finely chopped 1 red chili, finely chopped
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
• 2 cm (1 inch) piece of ginger, grated 2 cm (1 inch) piece of ginger, grated
• 400ml (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk 400ml (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• For the coconut rice: For the coconut rice:
• 1 cup (200g) jasmine rice 1 cup (200g) jasmine rice
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, chili, lemongrass, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
4. 4.
   Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove the lemongrass stalks before serving.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, prepare the coconut rice. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. 6.
   Serve the Plukkfisk over a bed of fragrant coconut rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Ensure the fish fillets are fresh and free from any unpleasant odor. If cod or haddock is not available, you can use other white fish varieties such as tilapia or sole.
• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalks by lightly pounding them with a rolling pin or the back of a knife. This helps release the aromatic oils and flavors.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk before opening to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice to the Plukkfisk just before serving.
• Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier kick or reduce it for a milder taste.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency for the Plukkfisk, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork before adding the fish.
• To make the dish more colorful, you can add some thinly sliced bell peppers or carrots along with the potatoes.

Serving advice

Serve the Plukkfisk with fragrant coconut rice on individual plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Presentation advice

To make the dish visually appealing, place a generous portion of the Plukkfisk in the center of the plate and arrange a mound of coconut rice alongside it. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro on top. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes over the rice.