Spicy Sour Tuna Soup (Sup Bening Ikan Tongkol Asam Pedas)

Delve into the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia with this Spicy Sour Tuna Soup, a delightful dish that perfectly balances tanginess and spiciness, making it a cherished favorite for many. This recipe showcases the beautiful harmony of fresh ingredients, creating a fragrant broth that envelops tender tuna and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a warm family meal, this soup is not only nutritious but also a wonderful way to enjoy the bounty of the sea.

Ingredients

• 1 whole tuna (ikan tongkol), cleaned and cut into serving pieces
• 4 shallots (bawang merah), thinly sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic (bawang putih), crushed
• 2 segments of ginger (jahe), crushed
• 2 stalks of lemongrass (serai), crushed
• 4 green tomatoes (tomat hijau), quartered
• 2 bunches of basil (kemangi), washed
• 2 limes (jeruk nipis), juiced
• 15 red or green chilies (rawit merah/ijo), whole or sliced
• Salt, to taste
• White sugar, to taste (can substitute with monosodium glutamate)
• Water, as needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing the tuna thoroughly under cold water. This step ensures that your fish is clean and ready to absorb all the lovely flavors of the soup. For detailed visuals, please refer to the accompanying images.

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2. Steam the Tuna: Next, steam the tuna pieces until they are just cooked through. This method helps retain the fish’s delicate texture while infusing it with the flavors of the soup.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and crushed lemongrass, sautéing until they become fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.

4. Create the Broth: Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, then season with salt, white sugar, and a dash of pepper. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to ensure even seasoning.

5. Combine Ingredients: Once the water is boiling, carefully add the steamed tuna along with the remaining ingredients: green tomatoes, whole chilies, and basil. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the fish remains intact.

6. Simmer and Serve: Let the soup simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together. The basil will impart a lovely aroma, while the chilies will provide a spicy kick.

7. Final Touches: Before serving, add the lime juice for an extra layer of tanginess. For an added depth of flavor, consider mixing in some tamarind for that signature sourness.

8. Enjoy: When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls while ensuring each portion has a generous amount of fish and vegetables. For an extra kick, gently crush the chilies before adding the soup to the bowl—this will enhance the spiciness beautifully.

Tip: To elevate your experience, serve the soup piping hot and enjoy it with steamed rice on the side. This vibrant dish not only warms the soul but also tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect balance of heat and acidity. Happy cooking! 🌟

This Spicy Sour Tuna Soup is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!