Auntie Asiah’s Assam Pedas Ikan Dori

Name: Auntie Asiah's Assam Pedas Ikan Dori
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 red onion, chopped; 3 shallots, chopped; 3 cloves garlic; 10 dried chili, chopped and soaked in hot water to soften; ¼ belacan (prawn paste); ½ tsp turmeric; 1 tsp salt; 1 ikan dori (catfish); lady's finger; 1 tomato; 1 cup assam (mixed with water to thin down) or option to use canned tomato sauce instead

Written by: Kampung Eats

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lthough Assam Pedas is a common dish, its cooking style and traditions vary between families. Auntie Asiah, who is 84 years old, loves Assam Pedas Ikan Dori. Her recipe has been passed down three generations and taught across her extended family. She wishes to pass this traditional family recipe down to her daughters before they get married, just like how her mother passed it to her.

“She shares that the secret ingredient behind this family recipe is the Belacan!“

Assam Pedas is extremely versatile; any fish can be used, from catfish to stingray. Chicken is another alternative – since there is a higher chance of overcooking fish, it is more beginner-friendly to cook.

Auntie Asiah grew up in a Kampung at Owen Road, before moving to Paya Lebar, Tiong Bahru, and now Tampines- which is by far her favourite neighbourhood due to its accessibility and availability of facilities. No matter where she stays, she never fails to cook a comforting bowl of Assam Pedas for her and her 3 children.