Pepes Tuna Kemangi: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Introduction:
Discover the vibrant flavors of Pepes Tuna Kemangi, an aromatic Indonesian dish that combines tender tuna with fragrant herbs and spices, all wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. This dish is perfect for a family meal or to impress guests at your next gathering.
Ingredients
| Main Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tuna (cut into small pieces) | 1/2 kg |
| Spices | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 7 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Candlenuts | 2 nuts |
| Large chilies | 3 peppers |
| Small chilies | 2 peppers (add more for extra heat) |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Ginger | 1 piece (about 1 inch) |
| Turmeric | 2 pieces (about 2 inches) |
| Grilled shrimp paste | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Garnishing | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basil (Kemangi) | To taste |
| Bay leaves | A few |
| Banana leaves | For wrapping |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Paste:
Begin by grinding the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, large and small chilies, tomato, ginger, turmeric, and grilled shrimp paste into a smooth paste. You can use a mortar and pestle or a food processor for this step. -
-
Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground spice paste with the small pieces of tuna, torn basil leaves, and bay leaves. Add salt to taste and mix well until the tuna is evenly coated with the spice blend. -
Wrap in Banana Leaves:
Take a piece of banana leaf and place a portion of the tuna mixture in the center. Fold the leaves over the mixture to create a secure packet. Repeat this process until all the tuna mixture is wrapped. -
Steam the Packets:
Place the wrapped packets in a steamer and steam for about 30-40 minutes, or until the tuna is fully cooked and the flavors meld together beautifully. -
Grill for Extra Flavor:
After steaming, heat a grill or a grill pan. Carefully place the steamed packets on the grill and cook for an additional 10 minutes to impart a smoky flavor. -
Serve:
Once grilled, remove the packets from the heat and allow them to cool slightly. Unwrap and serve the Pepes Tuna Kemangi hot, accompanied by steamed rice. Enjoy this deliciously fragrant dish with friends and family!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Conclusion:
Pepes Tuna Kemangi is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that showcases the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re exploring new recipes or wanting to share a piece of your culinary heritage, this dish will surely become a beloved favorite. Happy cooking!
