Indonesian fish recipes

Creamy Indonesian Tuna Curry in Coconut Broth (Pindang Tongkol Kuah Santan)

Published
Oct 24, 2024
Reading time
2 min
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Pindang Tongkol Kuah Santan is a delightful Indonesian dish that showcases the rich flavors of tuna simmered in a creamy coconut broth. With a harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience. Perfectly paired with hot steamed rice, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to prepare this delectable meal.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Pindang Tongkol (tuna) 10 pieces
Shallots (bawang merah) 7 cloves, thinly sliced
Garlic (bawang putih) 5 cloves, thinly sliced
Large green chili (cabai hijau) 10 pieces, thinly sliced
Galangal (lengkuas) 1 thumb, crushed
Bay leaves (daun salam) 2 leaves
Medium tomato 1 piece, quartered
Coconut milk (santan) 500 ml (from ½ coconut)
Salt To taste
Sugar To taste
Flavor enhancer (optional) To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tuna: Begin by cleaning the pindang tongkol (tuna). Lightly fry the fish pieces until they are half-cooked, ensuring they do not become dry. Once done, set the fish aside for later use.

  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet or pot, heat some oil and sauté the sliced shallots and garlic until they become fragrant. Next, add in the sliced green chilies, crushed galangal, bay leaves, and quartered tomato. Continue to sauté until all the ingredients are aromatic and the tomato starts to soften.

  3. Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine with the sautéed mixture. Season with salt and sugar to taste, adjusting as necessary to achieve the desired flavor profile.

  4. Incorporate the Tuna: Once the coconut milk mixture is boiling, gently add the half-cooked pindang tongkol into the pot. Allow the fish to simmer in the broth for about 5 minutes, ensuring it absorbs the rich flavors.

  5. Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and serve the Pindang Tongkol Kuah Santan hot, alongside a generous portion of steaming white rice. The delicious aroma and creamy broth will surely have you going back for seconds—enjoy every bite!


Pindang Tongkol Kuah Santan is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. The blend of spices and creamy coconut milk makes it a unique addition to your repertoire of Indonesian dishes. Give it a try, and relish the delightful flavors that this dish has to offer!