Kari Sotong Tanpa Santan: A Delicious and Healthy Alternative

Bang gito September 08, 2023 Recipe Comment

Are you craving for a flavorful and aromatic dish that is both delicious and healthy? Look no further than kari sotong tanpa santan, a tantalizing squid curry dish that does not use coconut milk. This unique recipe is perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or simply want to explore a lighter version of this traditional Malaysian favorite.

The absence of coconut milk in this dish does not compromise its taste and richness. In fact, kari sotong tanpa santan offers a different depth of flavors, allowing the spices and herbs to shine through. With its tender squid and fragrant curry paste, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

500g squid, cleaned and cut into rings
2 onions, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized ginger, grated
2 tomatoes, diced
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
1 cinnamon stick
2 cardamom pods
3 cloves
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Salt to taste
Water
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté until fragrant.
Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onions are translucent.
Stir in the curry powder, chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for another minute.
Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
Add the squid and stir well to coat it with the spice mixture.
Pour in enough water to cover the squid. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until the squid is tender.
Season with salt to taste.
Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Nutrition:

Here is the approximate nutritional information for one serving (based on a recipe that serves four):

Calories: 250
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 300mg
Sodium: 400mg
Potassium: 500mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 15%
Vitamin C: 20%
Calcium: 8%
Iron: 15%

When it comes to Malaysian cuisine, kari sotong tanpa santan stands out as a delightful dish that offers a healthier alternative to traditional coconut milk-based curries. This squid curry is packed with flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Malaysia. Let's dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe and explore the steps to create this sensational dish.

Choosing the Perfect Squid:

Before you begin cooking, it's essential to select fresh and high-quality squid. Look for squid that has a firm texture and a shiny appearance. If possible, buy whole squid and clean it yourself to ensure the best taste. Cleaning squid may seem intimidating, but it's relatively simple. Remove the head and tentacles, then peel off the skin and rinse the squid thoroughly. Finally, cut the squid into rings, and you're ready to start cooking!

Creating the Flavorful Curry Paste:

The heart of any curry lies in its paste, and kari sotong tanpa santan is no exception. The combination of spices and herbs creates a harmonious blend of flavors that infuse the squid and elevate the dish to new heights. In a pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat and add fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. As the spices sizzle, their aroma fills the kitchen, creating an enticing atmosphere. Then, add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Allow them to cook until the onions turn translucent, releasing their sweetness and fragrance.

Once the onions are cooked, it's time to introduce the star players: curry powder, chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. These spices add depth, warmth, and a hint of heat to the dish. Stir them into the onion mixture and let them toast for a minute, allowing their flavors to develop and intensify. The combination of these spices creates a robust and aromatic curry paste that will form the foundation of our kari sotong tanpa santan.

Infusing the Squid with Flavor:

With the curry paste ready, it's time to add the diced tomatoes to the pan. As the tomatoes cook, they release their juices, adding a tangy and slightly sweet element to the dish. The tomatoes also help to soften the squid, ensuring it turns tender and succulent. Once the tomatoes have started to soften, it's time to add the star of the show: the squid itself.

Add the squid to the pan and stir well to coat it evenly with the spice mixture. This step ensures that every piece of squid is infused with the delightful flavors of the curry paste. As the squid cooks, it absorbs the spices, becoming a vehicle for the rich and aromatic flavors of the dish. The combination of tender squid and fragrant curry paste is a match made in culinary heaven.

Simmering to Perfection:

After incorporating the squid into the spice mixture, it's time to add water to the pan. Pour in enough water to cover the squid and bring it to a simmer. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the squid to become tender. The gentle heat allows the spices to infuse into every nook and cranny of the squid, resulting in a dish that is bursting with flavor.

During the simmering process, the squid absorbs the liquid, becoming juicy and tender. The flavors intensify, and the curry develops a rich and robust taste. Allow the squid to cook for about 15 minutes, or until it reaches the desired tenderness. Be careful not to overcook the squid as it can become rubbery and tough.

Seasoning and Garnishing:

Once the squid is cooked to perfection, it's time to season the dish with salt to taste. The salt enhances the flavors of the spices and balances the overall taste of the curry. Start with a small amount of salt and gradually add more until the flavors are well balanced.

To add a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish, garnish it with chopped cilantro. The cilantro adds a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that complements the flavors of the curry. Sprinkle the cilantro over the dish just before serving to preserve its freshness and aroma.

Serving Suggestions:

Kari sotong tanpa santan is traditionally enjoyed with steamed rice or roti. The fragrant curry pairs beautifully with the fluffy rice, allowing you to savor every spoonful of the flavorful sauce. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful dining experience that will leave you craving for more.

For a complete meal, consider serving kari sotong tanpa santan with a side of pickles or a fresh salad. The tanginess of the pickles or the crispness of the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and aromatic curry. This combination creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Nutritional Benefits:

In addition to its incredible flavors, kari sotong tanpa santan offers several nutritional benefits. Squid is an excellent source of protein, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option. It is also low in calories and contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

The absence of coconut milk in this recipe reduces the saturated fat content, making it a healthier alternative to traditional curries. By omitting coconut milk, you can enjoy the flavors and textures of a curry without the added calories and saturated fat.

In conclusion, kari sotong tanpa santan is a delightful dish that offers a healthier alternative to traditional coconut milk-based curries. Its blend of spices and tender squid create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to try something new, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy this delicious curry with steamed rice or roti, and savor the taste of Malaysia in every bite.