Tongkol Sambal: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delectable Tongkol Sambal. This dish features tender pieces of tongkol fish, perfectly complemented by a spicy sambal made from fresh chilies, aromatic shallots, and fragrant garlic. It’s a delightful addition to any meal, perfect for those who love a bit of heat and richness in their culinary experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tongkol fish | 3 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 10 pieces |
| Curly red chilies | 5 pieces |
| Shallots | 5 pieces |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Green onions | To taste |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Seasoning (salt, Royco, sugar) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | Varies |
Instructions
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Fry the Fish: In a skillet, heat enough cooking oil over medium heat. Gently fry the tongkol fish pieces until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the fish from the oil and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Prepare the Sambal: In a mortar and pestle, combine the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chilies, curly red chilies, and a few tomatoes (if desired) to create a smooth paste. This will be the base of your sambal, bursting with flavors.
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Cook the Sambal: In the same skillet used for frying the fish, add a little more oil if necessary and sauté the sambal mixture over medium heat. Stir and taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt, Royco, and a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.
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Combine: Once the sambal is fragrant and well-cooked, gently fold in the fried tongkol fish. Toss everything together to ensure the fish is well-coated with the sambal, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors. Cook for an additional few minutes until everything is heated through.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the sambal tongkol to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and additional chilies, if desired, for an extra pop of color and flavor.
This Tongkol Sambal is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of spices and traditions, bringing warmth and joy to your dining table. Enjoy it with steamed rice or as part of a larger spread, and relish the explosion of flavors that make Indonesian cuisine so beloved! 🍽️✨
