
Pomfret with Sweet and Sour Sauce
Pencuci Mulut • Malaysia
How to Make Pomfret with Sweet and Sour Sauce (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Pomfret with Sweet and Sour Sauce, known locally as 'Ikan Bawal Masak Masam Manis', is a beloved dish in Malaysian homes, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and multicultural roots. This dish is a beautiful representation of Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage, blending Chinese influences with Malay-style aromatics like serai (lemongrass) and daun limau purut (kaffir lime leaves). The pomfret, or 'ikan bawal', is prized for its tender white flesh and delicate flavor, making it the perfect canvas for a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce. The sweet and sour sauce is made lighter and healthier in this version by using minimal oil and substituting refined sugar with natural sweeteners such as pineapple juice. Fresh local vegetables like capsicum and tomatoes not only add color but also boost the nutritional profile. This dish is typically served during family gatherings or festive occasions, yet it is straightforward enough for a nutritious weekday meal. If you're looking for a dish that brings together the best of Malaysia’s multicultural cuisine while being mindful of calories, this recipe is a delicious choice.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 1 medium pomfret fillet with sauce and vegetables)
- 2 medium Pomfret fillets (ikan bawal) (fresh, cleaned)
- 1/2 cup Red capsicum (sliced)
- 1/2 cup Pineapple chunks (fresh, optional: nanas)
- 1 medium Tomato (cut into wedges)
- 1 small Onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/2 inch Ginger (finely chopped)
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass) (bruised) - pilihan
- 1 tbsp Kicap manis (sweet soy sauce) (reduced sodium)
- 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp Pineapple juice (unsweetened) (natural sweetener)
- 1 tsp Cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (can use canola or sunflower)
- 1/4 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 1/8 tsp Black pepper (to taste)
Arahan
- 1
Pat dry the pomfret fillets and season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
3 minutes
Patting the fish dry ensures a crisp exterior when pan-seared.
- 2
Heat 1/2 tbsp cooking oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pan-sear the fillets for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
7 minutes
Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- 3
In the same pan, add remaining oil. Sauté garlic, ginger, onion, and serai (if using) until fragrant.
3 minutes
Use low heat to avoid burning the aromatics.
- 4
Add red capsicum, pineapple chunks, and tomato. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
2 minutes
Keep vegetables crisp for texture and nutrients.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
Pomfret with Sweet and Sour Sauce is a healthy choice because it features lean fish, a variety of colorful vegetables, and a sauce made with natural sweeteners. By pan-searing instead of deep-frying and minimizing added sugars, this recipe is suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. The inclusion of fiber-rich vegetables and healthy cooking methods makes it perfect for those aiming for balanced nutrition without sacrificing authentic Malaysian flavor.
This dish is rich in lean protein from pomfret and loaded with vitamins C and A from capsicum and tomatoes. Pineapple adds antioxidants and enzymes for digestion, while ginger and garlic provide anti-inflammatory benefits. The use of minimal oil and natural sweeteners keeps the calorie count in check, while the inclusion of lemongrass and fresh vegetables boosts fiber and micronutrient content. This balanced meal supports heart health, immune function, and overall wellness.
Petua
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh pomfret for the best flavor and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust the sourness and sweetness to your preference by varying the amount of pineapple juice and vinegar.
- 💡Tip 3: Add a few slices of fresh chili for an extra kick if you enjoy heat.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve fish texture and sauce quality.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 320.0 kcal |




