Spicy Shredded Smoked Tuna (Oil-Free)
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked tuna (medium-sized) | 1 kg (approximately 3 whole smoked tuna) |
| Galangal | 1 thumb-sized piece, lightly smashed |
| Ginger | ¾ thumb-sized piece, lightly smashed |
| Lemongrass | 2 stalks, white part only, lightly smashed |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 3 leaves, torn into pieces |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ground coriander | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Spice Paste:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 10 |
| Garlic cloves | 4 |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 19 (adjust to heat preference) |
| Red chilies | 9 |
| Small tomatoes | 2 |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Tuna:
Begin by carefully shredding the smoked tuna meat, ensuring that all the bones and the head are removed. Set the shredded tuna aside. -
Prepare the Spice Paste:
Blend the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chilies, red chilies, and tomatoes with a little water until smooth. This will create a rich and flavorful spice paste. -
-
Sauté the Spice Paste:
In a large pan, heat the blended spice paste over medium heat. Stir frequently and cook until the aroma fills the kitchen and the paste is fully cooked. -
Add the Aromatics:
Once the spice paste is fragrant and well-cooked, add the smashed galangal, ginger, lemongrass, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Stir them into the spice paste, ensuring the aromatics are well-distributed. -
Incorporate the Tuna:
Add the shredded smoked tuna to the pan. Stir the mixture well to combine the tuna with the spice paste and aromatics. -
Simmer:
Pour in a little water to prevent the mixture from drying out and to help the flavors meld. Stir well. -
Season:
Add sugar, salt, and ground coriander to taste. Stir until all the seasonings are evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. -
Cook until Dry:
Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to cook until most of the water has evaporated and the flavors have fully penetrated the tuna. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. -
Serve:
Once the mixture is dry, remove from the heat and serve your Spicy Shredded Smoked Tuna. Enjoy with steamed rice or as a flavorful side dish.
This oil-free dish is a delicious way to enjoy the bold flavors of smoked tuna, combined with a medley of fragrant spices and herbs. The heat from the chilies adds a delightful kick, balanced by the earthy notes of ginger and galangal.
