Arsik facts for kids
Carp arsik
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|
| Course | Main course |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Indonesia |
| Region or state | North Sumatra |
| Serving temperature | Hot or room temperature |
| Main ingredients | Fish in spices |
Arsik is a super tasty and spicy fish dish from Indonesia. It's a special meal for the Batak Toba and Mandailing people. They live in North Sumatra. The main ingredient is usually a fish called common carp, which Indonesians often call ikan mas.
What Makes Arsik Special?
Arsik is famous for its unique flavors. It uses special ingredients that grow in the Batak region. Two very important ones are the torch ginger fruit, called asam cikala, and a spice called andaliman. Andaliman tastes a bit like Szechuan pepper, giving Arsik a tingly feeling.
Key Ingredients
Besides these unique spices, Arsik also uses common Indonesian ingredients. These include shallots, garlic, ginger, fresh turmeric root, and chili. These spices are mixed together to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Where Does Andaliman Grow?
The andaliman spice is very important for Arsik's special taste. It only grows in the Batak highlands. These areas are called North Tapanuli and Samosir. This is why Arsik is known as a dish specifically from the Batak Toba and Mandailing people. They live in these regions and use the local ingredients.
Other Types of Arsik
While carp is the most common fish for Arsik, other types of fish can be used. Saltwater fish like rastrelliger (called kembung) and snappers can also be made into Arsik. Sometimes, people even make a meat version of Arsik. Pork is often used for this meat variant.
