Tuna Pedas: A Spicy Tuna Delight
Tuna Pedas is a vibrant Indonesian dish that combines the rich flavors of tuna with a medley of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, creating a delightful balance of heat and taste. This dish not only brings a spicy kick to your palate but also offers the wholesome goodness of fresh tuna, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for your next gathering, Tuna Pedas is sure to please.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Tuna Fish | 1 kg |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 5 cloves |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5 cloves |
| Large Red Chili Peppers | 5 (seeds removed) |
| Curly Chili Peppers (cabe keriting) | 10 |
| Bird’s Eye Chili (cabe rawit) | 10 |
| Brown Sugar Syrup or Water | To taste |
| Ginger (jahe) | 1 piece (smashed) |
| Water | As needed |
| Lime Juice | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Varies (approx. 350) |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | Varies (dependent on added salt) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tuna: Begin by cleaning the fresh tuna thoroughly under running water. Once cleaned, rub the fish with lime juice and sprinkle salt over it. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor.
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Steam the Tuna: After marinating, steam the tuna for approximately 15 minutes. This cooking method ensures that the fish remains moist and flaky. Once done, remove the fish from the steamer and let it cool slightly before frying.
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Fry the Tuna: Heat a little oil in a pan and quickly fry the steamed tuna until it is lightly golden. Be cautious not to fry it for too long, as you want to maintain its tenderness. Once fried, set it aside.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, large red chili peppers, curly chili peppers, and bird’s eye chili peppers. Add just enough water to facilitate blending and create a smooth paste.
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Sauté the Spice Mixture: In a frying pan, heat some oil and add the blended spice paste. Sauté the mixture over medium heat until it becomes fragrant and starts to thicken. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
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Add Flavorings: Once the spice paste is ready, add the smashed ginger to the pan. Stir continuously for a minute before adding brown sugar syrup, salt, and additional sugar to taste. Adjust the flavors to your liking, ensuring a perfect balance between sweetness and spiciness.
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Combine Tuna and Sauce: Gently add the fried tuna to the spice mixture, tossing it carefully to ensure the fish is well-coated with the spicy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tuna to absorb the flavors.
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Serve: Your Tuna Pedas is now ready to be served! Plate it with a side of steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with lime wedges for an extra zesty flavor.
Final Thoughts
Tuna Pedas offers a wonderful culinary experience that showcases the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Its combination of tender tuna and a spicy, aromatic sauce makes it a dish that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy this delightful recipe at home, and let the flavors transport you to the tropical shores of Indonesia.
