Cakalang Kuah Kuning: A Flavorful Indonesian Yellow Tuna Soup Recipe
Cakalang Kuah Kuning, a delightful Indonesian dish, features tender cakalang fish simmered in a fragrant, spiced broth. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a vibrant centerpiece for your dining table, offering a combination of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Indonesia. In this recipe, we will guide you through each step, ensuring you can recreate this traditional dish effortlessly in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Here is a detailed list of ingredients needed to prepare Cakalang Kuah Kuning, ensuring you have everything at hand for a successful cooking experience.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cakalang fish (medium size) | 1 whole fish |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Toasted coriander | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh turmeric | 3 cm |
| Bird’s eye chili (to taste) | As desired |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | ½ sachet |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 3 leaves |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Lemongrass (white part, smashed) | 1 stalk |
| Galangal (smashed) | 2 cm |
| Granulated sugar | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh basil leaves | A handful (for garnish) |
| Tomato (for garnish) | 1 (optional) |
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional values can vary based on portion sizes and preparation methods, here’s a general idea of the nutrition you can expect from a serving of Cakalang Kuah Kuning:
| Nutrient | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300 |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare your Cakalang Kuah Kuning, ensuring that every ingredient melds beautifully to create a comforting and flavorful soup.
-
Prepare the Fish: Start by cleaning the cakalang fish thoroughly. Remove the entrails and scales, then cut the fish into manageable pieces. To enhance the flavor and remove any fishy odor, rub the fish pieces with salt and lime juice. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes.
-
Make the Spice Paste: While the fish marinates, prepare the spice paste. In a mortar and pestle, or using a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, toasted coriander, fresh turmeric, and bird’s eye chili (adjust the quantity based on your spice preference). Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the prepared spice paste. Sauté for a few minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.
-
Add the Herbs and Seasonings: Stir in the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, smashed lemongrass, galangal, salt, and sugar. Mix well and continue to cook for another minute to allow the flavors to combine.
-
Cook the Fish: Gently add the marinated cakalang fish pieces to the pot. Carefully coat the fish with the spice mixture, ensuring it is evenly covered. Pour enough water to cover the fish, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
-
Final Touches: Once the fish is cooked, taste the broth and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you desire, sprinkle in a little flavor enhancer at this stage. For added freshness, you can also toss in some fresh basil leaves and sliced tomatoes just before serving.
-
Serve: Ladle the Cakalang Kuah Kuning into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of the fragrant broth and tender fish. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and slices of tomato for a beautiful presentation.
Conclusion
Cakalang Kuah Kuning is more than just a meal; it is an experience that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Serve this dish alongside steamed rice and perhaps a side of fresh vegetables to complete your culinary journey. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or entertaining guests, this comforting and aromatic soup is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of this traditional Indonesian delight!
