Title: Crispy Tongkol Fish (Ikan Tongkol Kering)
Description: Crispy Tongkol Fish is a delightful Indonesian dish that showcases the deliciousness of canned mackerel (tongkol) in a fragrant garlic oil, seasoned with traditional shrimp paste (terasi) and salt. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe, perfect for serving with warm rice and sambal bajak, making it an ideal meal for busy days or even for students on a budget.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned mackerel (tongkol) | 1.5 medium-sized fish |
| Garlic oil | To taste (for frying) |
| Cooked shrimp paste (terasi) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste (about 1 teaspoon for seasoning) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by steaming the canned mackerel (tongkol) to ensure it is cooked through. Once done, remove the fish from the steamer and let it cool slightly. Carefully clean the fish by removing all the bones and scales, then chop it into coarse pieces.
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Heat the Garlic Oil: In a skillet, heat a generous amount of garlic oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be aromatic but not smoking.
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Add the Fish: Once the oil is fragrant, introduce the chopped tongkol fish into the skillet. Lower the heat to prevent burning and stir gently to combine with the oil.
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Incorporate the Shrimp Paste: Add the cooked shrimp paste (terasi) into the pan, mixing it well with the fish. Stir frequently to ensure that the flavors meld beautifully.
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Cook to Crispy Perfection: Gradually increase the heat, continuing to stir consistently. Cook until the fish mixture is dry but be cautious not to let it burn. The goal is to achieve a crispy texture without charring.
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Season and Finish: Turn off the heat but keep stirring the mixture as you add salt to taste. Approximately 1 teaspoon of salt should suffice for the amount of fish used, but feel free to adjust according to your preference. Avoid adding any flavor enhancers, as they might overpower the natural taste of the fish.
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Serve: Enjoy your crispy tongkol fish with cold rice for a simple meal, or pair it with warm rice and sambal bajak for an extra burst of flavor. This dish can be stored for several days, making it a convenient choice for meal prep, especially for students.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Cooking Tip: This dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad to balance the flavors. Enjoy the crispy texture and rich umami taste of the tongkol fish that can be savored over multiple meals!
With its straightforward preparation and rich flavor, Crispy Tongkol Fish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire, perfect for quick dinners or casual lunches with friends. Enjoy your cooking!
