Alaskan Salmon Gulai

Ingredients:

• Alaska salmon – 400 g

• Shallots – 6 pcs

• Garlic – 4 cloves

• Turmeric powder – 1 tsp

• Cumin powder – ½ tsp

• Ginger – 2-inch piece

• Large red chilies – 2 pcs

• Small red chilies – 2 pcs

• Lime or lemon – 1 pc

• Thick coconut milk – 200 ml

• Salt – 2 tsp or to taste

• Lemongrass – 1 stalk (bruised)

• Fresh galangal – 1 piece (sliced)

• Salam leaves or bay leaves – 2 pcs

• Cooking oil – 4 tbsp

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Place the Alaska salmon in a bowl. Season with salt and lime or lemon juice, mixing well. Pan-fry the salmon over medium heat until lightly golden on both sides and just cooked through. Remove from the pan, drain excess oil, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Spice Base

Blend the shallots, garlic, turmeric powder, cumin powder, ginger, and both red chilies into a smooth paste. Heat the oil in a separate pan, then sauté the spice paste over medium heat until fragrant. Add lemongrass, galangal, and salam (or bay) leaves, stirring well.

Step 3: Simmer with Coconut Milk

Pour in the thick coconut milk and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the fried salmon to the sauce and gently coat it evenly. Simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to absorb. Adjust seasoning if needed, then remove from heat.