Spicy Tongkol (Tongkol Pedas) Recipe
Embark on a culinary journey to Indonesia with this delightful recipe for Spicy Tongkol, or Tongkol Pedas, a vibrant dish that brings the bold flavors of the archipelago straight to your table. This dish, featuring tender tuna-like fish, is bathed in a rich, aromatic sauce crafted from a medley of spices and fresh ingredients. Not only is it satisfying and delicious, but it’s also relatively simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Ingredients
To create this exquisite Spicy Tongkol dish, gather the following fresh ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tongkol fish | 2 whole fish |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Kaffir lime leaf | 1 leaf |
| Bird’s eye chili | 4 pieces |
| Red chili | 5 pieces |
| Salt | to taste |
| Palm sugar | 0.5 piece |
| Water | as needed |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish: Start by thoroughly cleaning and cutting the tongue fish. Ensure you remove any scales and innards, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until it’s half-cooked. This initial frying will help seal in the flavors and create a delightful texture.
-
Blend the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, or using a food processor, combine the garlic, shallots, bird’s eye chili, red chili, and salt, blending until you achieve a smooth paste. Add the finely shredded kaffir lime leaf for an aromatic boost.
-
Prepare the Tomato: Slice the tomato into wedges, which will add a refreshing contrast to the spicy sauce.
-
Sauté the Spices: In the same pan used for frying the fish, add a little more oil if needed and toss in the blended spice paste. Sauté on medium heat until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
-
Add Sweetness and Liquid: Stir in the palm sugar, allowing it to melt and combine with the spices, then add just enough water to create a sauce. Adjust the quantity based on your desired consistency, whether thicker or thinner.
-
Cook the Fish: Carefully place the half-cooked tongue fish into the sautéed spices. Gently coat the fish in the sauce and let it simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and has absorbed all the flavorful essence of the sauce.
-
Finish and Serve: Once the fish is fully cooked, gently fold in the tomato wedges, allowing them to soften slightly without losing their shape. Adjust seasoning as needed, and serve hot with steamed rice to balance the spice and enhance the meal experience.
Enjoy this Spicy Tongkol, which is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its robust flavors and satisfy your hunger with its rich, savory profile. This dish not only embodies the spirit of Indonesian cuisine but also brings a touch of warmth and comfort to your dining table. Happy cooking!
