Woku Ikan Tuna: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Woku Ikan Tuna is a vibrant and aromatic dish hailing from Indonesia, characterized by its rich blend of spices and fresh ingredients that bring the flavors of the ocean to your table. This recipe not only showcases the deliciousness of tuna but also infuses it with the refreshing notes of herbs and spices, making it a perfect companion for steamed rice and sautéed kangkung (water spinach). Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions to guide you through the preparation of this delightful dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tuna fish | 1 whole |
| Shallots | 8 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Candlenuts | 4 pieces |
| Chili peppers (to taste) | Adjust as desired |
| Turmeric | To taste |
| Ginger | To taste |
| Turmeric leaves (finely sliced) | 2 leaves |
| Lime leaves (finely sliced) | 2 leaves |
| Lemongrass (bruised) | 1 stalk |
| Thai basil (or basil) | 1 handful |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste (as a substitute for seasoning) |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fats | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Instructions
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Preparation of the Tuna: Begin by cutting the whole tuna into small pieces, ensuring that they are manageable for cooking. Rinse the pieces thoroughly under running water and then marinate them with fresh lime juice. This step not only helps to eliminate the fishy odor but also infuses the tuna with a zesty flavor.
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Creating the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, or using a food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, ginger, and chili peppers. Grind or blend these ingredients into a smooth paste, ensuring that the spices are well combined and aromatic.
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Sautéing the Spice Mixture: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the freshly ground spice paste. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Cooking the Tuna: Add the marinated tuna pieces to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them with the sautéed spices. Incorporate the sliced turmeric leaves, lime leaves, and bruised lemongrass into the mixture. This combination of herbs will elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
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Adding Water: Pour in enough water to create a sauce that will simmer with the tuna. The amount of water will depend on your desired sauce consistency; typically, about 1 to 2 cups should suffice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Final Touches: Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow the dish to simmer. Add the Thai basil and any additional chili peppers and tomatoes for color and flavor. Cook until the tuna is tender and fully cooked through, and the sauce has reduced to your preferred consistency. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Serving Suggestions: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Woku Ikan Tuna hot alongside a generous portion of steaming white rice and sautéed kangkung for a well-rounded meal. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more.
Conclusion
Woku Ikan Tuna is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. The careful balance of spices and fresh ingredients makes this dish a wonderful option for family gatherings or a special dinner. By following these steps, you will be able to bring a taste of Indonesia into your kitchen, impressing your family and friends with your culinary skills. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to savor the delightful aroma that fills your home as you prepare this delicious dish!
