Tongkol Pindang Recipe
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Tongkol Fish | 12 pieces |
| Fresh Basil (Kemangi) | 1 bunch |
| Shallots | 6 pieces |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Red Bird’s Eye Chili | 5 pieces |
| Curly Red Chili Peppers | 4 pieces |
| Candlenuts | 2 pieces |
| Kandis Acid (Asam Kandis) | 1 piece |
| Turmeric (peeled and ground) | 1 thumb-sized |
| Ginger (bruised) | 1 thumb-sized |
| Galangal (bruised) | 1 thumb-sized |
| Lemongrass (bruised) | 1 stalk |
| Kaffir Lime Leaves | 3 leaves |
| Bay Leaves | 2 leaves |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Chicken Bouillon Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Water | 3 cups |
| Cooking Oil | As needed |
Steps:
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Prepare and Clean: Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring the fish is thoroughly cleaned. This will remove any unwanted residues and help the fish absorb the flavors better.
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Create the Spice Paste: In a food processor or mortar and pestle, blend the shallots, garlic, red bird’s eye chili, curly red chili, candlenuts, and turmeric into a smooth paste.
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Sauté the Paste: Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the blended spice paste until it becomes fragrant. Add the bruised ginger, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves, stirring frequently to release their aromatic oils.
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Add Water and Seasonings: Pour in the water, then add the kandis acid, salt, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir until everything is well combined and let it simmer.
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Cook the Fish: Once the broth begins to boil, gently add the tongkol fish pieces. Allow the fish to cook in the simmering broth until fully cooked, ensuring the flavors soak into the fish.
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Final Touches: Check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Once the fish is tender and cooked through, toss in the fresh basil leaves, giving it one final stir to incorporate the fresh herbal notes.
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Serve: Your Tongkol Pindang is now ready to be served. Enjoy it warm with steamed rice and a side of sambal if you prefer a spicier kick.
This aromatic and flavorful dish brings the best of Indonesian cuisine to your table. The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and tender tongkol fish creates a delightful balance, perfect for family meals or gatherings.
