Gulai Ikan Tongkol: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Curry
Gulai Ikan Tongkol is a delightful Indonesian dish that showcases the rich and aromatic flavors of a traditional curry, perfect for a comforting meal with loved ones. This recipe features ikan tongkol (skipjack tuna), a fish that absorbs the spices beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both fragrant and savory. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy texture, making it an ideal companion to steamed rice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan Tongkol (small-sized) | 1 piece |
| Kara coconut milk | 1 packet |
| Lemongrass (bruised) | 2 stalks |
| Galangal (bruised) | 3 cm |
| Bay leaves | 4 leaves |
| Turmeric leaves | 1 leaf |
| Green onion (sliced diagonally) | 1 stalk |
| Ground Spices: | |
| Red chili peppers | 7 large |
| Shallots | 4 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Ginger | 3 cm |
| Fresh turmeric | 6 cm |
| Ground pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Clean the ikan tongkol thoroughly and cut it into pieces according to your preference. |
| 2 | (Optional) Briefly boil the ikan tongkol in water for a few minutes to firm up the texture. |
| 3 | In a large pan, heat a little cooking oil over medium heat and sauté the ground spices until fragrant. |
| 4 | Add the bruised lemongrass, galangal, bay leaves, and turmeric leaves to the sautéed spices, stirring to combine. |
| 5 | Introduce the pieces of ikan tongkol to the pan, adding a splash of water to help create the sauce. |
| 6 | Season with salt and cook until the fish is halfway done. |
| 7 | Pour in the kara coconut milk, stirring gently; add more water if the sauce appears too thick. |
| 8 | Continue to stir carefully to prevent the coconut milk from splitting. |
| 9 | Add sugar and the sliced green onion to the pot, adjusting the seasoning to your taste. |
| 10 | Cook until the sauce reduces slightly and the fish is fully cooked through. |
| 11 | Serve your Gulai Ikan Tongkol hot, accompanied by steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal. |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Cooking Tips:
- For an added depth of flavor, allow the gulai to simmer gently for longer, which allows the spices to meld together beautifully.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer red chili peppers according to your taste preference.
- Pair with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the gulai.
Final Thoughts:
Gulai Ikan Tongkol is not just a dish; it’s an experience that encapsulates the heart and soul of Indonesian cuisine. The combination of spices, coconut milk, and tender fish creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this culinary adventure and bring a taste of Indonesia into your home!
