Spicy Indonesian Mackerel and Tofu Delight: Balado Tongkol & Tahu
Balado Tongkol & Tahu
Embark on a culinary journey to Indonesia with this vibrant and flavorful dish, Balado Tongkol & Tahu, featuring tender pieces of mackerel (tongkol) and crispy tofu bathed in a spicy, aromatic sauce. Perfect for serving with steamed rice, this recipe combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a satisfying meal that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium mackerel (tongkol), sliced | 1 fish, cut into 10 pieces |
| Small tofu, diced | 5 pieces |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ground Spices: | |
| Red shallots | 5 pieces |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Red chilies | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 5 pieces |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Brown sugar (medium-sized) | 1 piece |
Instructions
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Prepare the Mackerel: Clean the sliced mackerel thoroughly. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the fish pieces until they are cooked through and golden brown. Set aside to drain on paper towels.
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Fry the Tofu: Dice the tofu into small cubes. In the same or a separate pan, fry the tofu until it is crispy and golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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Cook the Spice Blend: In a blender, combine the red shallots, garlic, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat and sauté the ground spice mixture until it is fragrant and the oil begins to separate.
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Add Aromatics: Toss in the kaffir lime leaves, followed by sugar and salt, adjusting to your taste. Add enough water to create a sauce-like consistency.
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Combine the Ingredients: Gently add the fried mackerel and tofu into the skillet, ensuring they are coated with the spicy sauce. Allow the dish to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken slightly.
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Serve: Once the dish has simmered and the flavors have melded, remove from heat. Serve hot alongside steamed rice, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Indonesian classic.
This Balado Tongkol & Tahu recipe is a wonderful way to experience the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia, combining the deliciousness of fish and tofu with a vibrant, spicy sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, it showcases the beauty of home cooking with love and passion!
