IKAN PEKASAM

I bought this pack of Ikan Pekasam or Pekasam Fish from a restaurant in Ipoh. It cost RM 4.00.  I was told that this is a special dish that is found in Perak. Ikan Pekasam is fish marinated in toasted rice and salt and left to ferment for two weeks in a closed urn. The process softens the fscales and bones of the fish and gives the traditional delicacy its distinct sharp tangy taste. Pekasam is usually eaten fried and goes very well with plain rice.