Dinner Party · Indonesian
Ikan Woku
This North Sulawesi fish stew is loaded with fresh herbs to create a bright, spicy, and citrusy finish.
Why This Works
The use of lemon basil adds a refreshing, anise-like finish that cuts through the heat of the chilies.
The Upgrade
Add 5-6 cherry tomatoes halved right at the end to add a bright burst of acidity.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueThe Woku technique relies on fresh herbs; do not substitute with dried. The 'punch' comes from the fresh basil and lime combination.
Ingredients
Total time including resting: 45 min
Directions
Marinate the fish with a pinch of salt and lime juice.
10 minIn a pot, sauté the blended chilies, turmeric, and ginger until fragrant.
5 minAdd lemongrass and lime leaves, stirring until they release their aromatic oils.
2 minPlace the fish into the pot and gently pour in 1 cup of water.
Simmer on low heat until the fish is cooked through and opaque.
10 minGently fold in the scallions and the lemon basil leaves at the last second, just until they wilt.
1 minRemove from heat immediately to maintain the vibrant green color of the herbs.
Wine Pairing
Vermentino
White Wine
The BottleAntinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Vermentino
This fish stew is bright and citrusy, making Vermentino an ideal match. The wine's herbal undertones and refreshing acidity mirror the aromatics in the broth perfectly.
Nutrition per Serving
210
calories
28g
protein
5g
carbs
8g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Steamed Bok Choy
Quickly steam bok choy for a mild, fibrous green that balances the complex, citrusy fish stew.
Ingredients
Directions
Trim the base of the bok choy and halve each stalk lengthwise; wash thoroughly to remove grit.
Heat the neutral oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Sauté the ginger briefly until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
Arrange the bok choy in the pan, cut-side down, and sear for 1 minute.
Add the Shaoxing wine, cover immediately, and steam for 3 minutes until stems are tender-crisp.
Remove the lid, stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and serve immediately.
Side Dish
Grilled Corn
Sweet grilled corn provides a gentle, sugary contrast to the spicy, herb-forward North Sulawesi sauce.
Ingredients
Directions
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F.
Place the shucked corn directly on the grill grates.
Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and lightly charred.
Remove from the heat and immediately brush with softened butter.
Season evenly with the sea salt and black pepper.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving alongside the Ikan Woku.
Member Reviews
How did it turn out?
Rate this recipe
Very approachable even for a beginner. Turned out great.
The timing on the steps was spot on. Came out perfect on the first try.