Spicy Calabash Stew

Spicy Calabash Stew is a tantalizing and creamy dish that showcases the unique flavors of calabash, combined with a medley of aromatic spices and the richness of coconut milk. This stew is a celebration of bold and vibrant flavors that come together to create a memorable culinary experience.
Spicy Calabash Stew


The journey begins with the calabash, or Labu Air, also known by various names such as bottle gourd, white-flowered gourd, long melon, birdhouse gourd, New Guinea bean, Tasmania bean, and opo squash which takes center stage in this dish. The calabash is peeled and cubed, ready to absorb the flavors of the stew. Its mild and tender flesh provides a delightful contrast to the rich and spicy elements of the stew.

To infuse the stew with a fiery kick, a combination of shallots, onion, and red chilies is finely chopped and stir-fried until fragrant. The mashed red chilies add a vibrant hue and a hint of heat, while the shallots and onions contribute their aromatic sweetness.

For an extra level of spiciness, uncut ghost pepper, known for its intense heat, is added to the stew. Be cautious with its intensity and adjust the amount according to your preference. Alongside the ghost pepper, slices of ginger and galangal lend their unique flavors, adding depth and warmth to the stew.

Once the aromatic base is prepared, the creamy element comes into play. Coconut milk, with its rich and luscious texture, is poured into the stew, creating a velvety base that envelops all the ingredients. The coconut milk not only adds a luxurious creaminess but also helps tame the spiciness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

To enhance the heartiness of the stew, long beans, cut into bite-sized pieces, are added. They provide a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness amidst the rich and creamy backdrop.

Finally, succulent shrimp, peeled and deveined, are introduced to the stew, infusing it with their delicate and briny flavors. As the stew simmers, the shrimp become tender and absorb the aromatic spices, adding a delightful seafood element to the dish.

The Spicy Calabash Stew is then seasoned with chili powder and salt, allowing the flavors to meld together. The stew is simmered until the calabash reaches a tender perfection and the flavors have harmonized.]

[] Prep Time:15 Minutes
Cook Time:20 Minutes
Suitable:_LowFat
Category:Meal
Origin:Indonesian
Serving:6 Person
Tags:Spicy, Stew, Calabash
Nutrifacts:240 calories
  9 grams fat
Rating:3.8  

With its creamy and luscious texture, vibrant colors, and an enticing medley of flavors, the Spicy Calabash Stew is a true delight for the senses. Each spoonful offers a symphony of heat, creaminess, and the unique taste of calabash. It is a dish that brings warmth and comfort while showcasing the versatility of this wonderful ingredient. 

Ingredients:
  • 1 calabash (Labu Air), peeled and cubed
  • 4 shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • A handful of red chilies, mashed (adjust according to your desired level of spiciness)
  • 100g uncut ghost pepper (be cautious with its intensity)
  • 1 thumb-sized ginger, thinly sliced
  • 1 thumb-sized galangal, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 200g long beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 400ml coconut milk
  • Water, as needed
  • Salt and MSG to taste

Instructions:
  1. In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the shallots, onion, and mashed red chilies. Stir-fry until the mixture becomes fragrant.
  2. Add the uncut ghost pepper, ginger, and galangal to the pan. Continue to sauté for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  3. Pour in the coconut milk and stir well. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes.
  4. Add the cubed calabash, long beans, and shrimp to the pan. Stir to coat them evenly with the aromatic mixture.
  5. Sprinkle in the chili powder and season with salt to taste. Adjust the spiciness and seasoning according to your preference.
  6. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the calabash becomes tender and the flavors have melded together, approximately 15-20 minutes.
  7. Once the soup has reached the desired consistency and flavors have melded, it is ready to be served. Ladle the Spicy Calabash Soup into bowls and enjoy its aromatic and fiery flavors.

Enjoy the Spicy Calabash Stew as a satisfying main course, accompanied by steamed rice or crusty bread. Let its enchanting flavors transport you to a culinary paradise where boldness and creaminess collide in perfect harmony.

Extra Spicy Calabash Stew

This Spicy Calabash Soup is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines the mildness of the calabash with the fiery kick of spices. The creamy coconut milk adds richness to the soup, while the long beans and shrimp provide contrasting textures. Take delight in the flavors and spice of this delightful soup, which can be enjoyed by 4-6 people.



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