Ikan Tuna Masak Kuning Kemangi (Spicy Yellow Tuna with Basil)
A Delicious Blend of Fresh Tuna and Aromatic Spices
Tuna masak kuning kemangi is a delightful dish hailing from Indonesia, renowned for its vibrant flavors and aromatic herbs. This recipe showcases the succulent taste of fresh or preserved tuna combined with a rich medley of spices, tomatoes, and the fragrant notes of basil. The balance of heat from the chili peppers and the refreshing essence of basil make this dish an enticing choice for any meal. Whether served with steamed rice or as part of a larger feast, it promises to satisfy and impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tuna (fresh or preserved) | 1/4 kg |
| Basil (kemangi) | To taste |
| Tomatoes | 2 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 5 pieces |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 2 pieces |
| Ginger | To taste |
| Turmeric | To taste |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Salt | To taste |
| MSG (vitsin) | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by grinding the candlenuts, ginger, turmeric, garlic, and shallots into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor. This aromatic spice blend will serve as the foundation for your dish.
-
Chop the Vegetables: Dice the tomatoes and slice the bird’s eye chilies according to your spice preference. Additionally, cut the tuna into bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
-
Sautรฉ the Spice Paste: In a large skillet or wok, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sautรฉ until fragrant, allowing the spices to release their essential oils, about 2โ3 minutes.
-
Add Tomatoes and Chilies: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and sliced chilies, allowing them to soften and blend with the spices, creating a rich sauce base for the dish.
-
Incorporate the Tuna: Gently add the cubed tuna to the skillet, ensuring it is well-coated with the flavorful mixture. Pour in a splash of water to help create a savory broth.
-
Add Basil: After a few minutes of cooking, when the tuna is almost cooked through, add the fresh basil leaves. Stir well and allow the dish to simmer until the tuna is fully cooked and the flavors meld beautifully, approximately 5โ7 minutes.
-
Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with salt, sugar, and MSG to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Taste and make any necessary adjustments to suit your palate.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove from heat and transfer the dish to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed rice or your choice of side dishes, allowing the aromatic flavors of Ikan Tuna Masak Kuning Kemangi to shine through in every bite.
This dish encapsulates the essence of Indonesian cuisine, blending freshness, heat, and herbal notes into a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious meal!
