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Pempek Fish Cakes

Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, these savory fish cakes are made from minced white fish and tapioca starch.

45 minMediumServes 4310 cal/serving

IndonesianAppetizerStovetopPescatarianHigh ProteinHalal-friendlyGluten-FreeDairy-FreeNut-FreeSoy-FreeShellfish-FreePork-FreeAlcohol-FreeSesame-FreeNightshade-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb white fish fillets, minced
  • 1.5 cups tapioca starch
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup ice water
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix 1 lb minced white fish fillets, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 beaten egg, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup ice water in a bowl until smooth.

  2. 2

    Fold in 1.5 cups tapioca starch gradually to form a firm dough.

  3. 3

    Shape dough into logs and boil in water for 12 minutes until floating.

  4. 4

    Heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil in a skillet and fry boiled logs for 4 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 145F.

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Questions

What is Pempek Fish Cakes?

Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, these savory fish cakes are made from minced white fish and tapioca starch. This reference files it under Indonesian appetizer: made on the stovetop, rated medium and about 45 minutes start to finish.

How long does Pempek Fish Cakes take?

As written, 45 minutes: 25 of prep and 20 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 3 (12 minutes): "Shape dough into logs and boil in water for 12 minutes until floating."

What internal temperature should Pempek Fish Cakes reach?

For Pempek Fish Cakes, the target internal temperature is 145 F (about 65 C), given in step 4. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

Does Pempek Fish Cakes contain eggs?

Yes: 1 egg, beaten. The full allergen list for this entry is eggs and fish. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

Can I freeze Pempek Fish Cakes?

It is not a good candidate. Refrigerate what is left of Pempek Fish Cakes within two hours and eat it within two days (seafood turns fast). Reheat uncovered in a 400 F oven (or an air fryer) for a few minutes to bring the crust back; the microwave softens it.

Serve it with

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