Aromatic Grilled Tuna in Indonesian Spice Wrap

Pepes Tongkol Suroboyo’an: Indonesian Grilled Tuna with Aromatic Herbs

Embark on a flavorful journey with Pepes Tongkol Suroboyo’an, a traditional Indonesian dish featuring tuna wrapped in aromatic herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. This recipe is a delightful way to experience the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 medium tuna (tongkol)
• 2 shallots (bawang merah)
• 1 clove garlic (bawang putih)
• 1 tomato
• 2 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) – optional for added spice
• 1 candlenut (kemiri)
• A small piece of turmeric (kunyit)
• A small piece of ginger (jahe)
• A handful of basil leaves (kemangi)
• Salt and sugar to taste
• Seasoning (optional, such as MSG or a seasoning mix)

Steps

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Begin by lightly frying the shallots, garlic, candlenut, chilies, tomato, turmeric, and ginger. This step will help release their essential oils and enhance their flavors.

2. Blend the Spice Mixture:

   • Once fried, combine all the ingredients in a mortar and pestle or blender. Add the basil leaves along with salt and sugar to taste. Blend until the mixture forms a smooth paste.

3. Season the Tuna:

   • Clean the tuna and season it with the spice paste. Ensure the paste is evenly spread over the fish for optimal flavor.

4. Wrap the Tuna:

   • Wrap the seasoned tuna in banana leaves or foil, making sure it is securely closed. This wrapping helps lock in the flavors and moisture during cooking.

5. Steam the Tuna:

   • Steam the wrapped tuna for 20-30 minutes. This method allows the fish to absorb the aromatic flavors of the spice paste while cooking thoroughly.

6. Finish with Grilling:

   • After steaming, briefly grill the wrapped tuna over a flame or on a grill pan to develop a smoky aroma and slightly charred exterior.

7. Serve:

   • Unwrap the tuna and serve it hot. Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful Pepes Tongkol Suroboyo’an with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian meal.

This Pepes Tongkol Suroboyo’an recipe is a testament to the vibrant and diverse flavors of Indonesian cuisine, perfect for those seeking to explore new culinary horizons. Happy cooking!