Spicy Coconut Tuna (Ikan Cakalang Santan Pedas) Recipe
Overview
This Spicy Coconut Tuna dish is a delightful blend of tender fish and a rich, spicy coconut sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. The dish, known as Ikan Cakalang Santan Pedas, originates from Indonesia and is often enjoyed with steamed rice. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for those looking to explore Indonesian flavors in their kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tuna fish (Ikan Cakalang), cut into pieces and fried | 700 grams |
| Ground Spices: | |
| Garlic | 7 cloves |
| Shallots | 8 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chilies (optional) | 15 chilies |
| Additional Seasoning: | |
| Fine salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Galangal, crushed | 2 finger lengths |
| Tomatoes, sliced | 2 pieces |
| Instant broth powder | 1 sachet |
| Coconut milk (optional) | 1 packet |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ground Spices:
Start by frying the garlic, shallots, and chilies in a pan over medium heat until they become fragrant and soft. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before blending them into a smooth paste. -
-
Cook the Sauce:
In a new cooking pan, add the ground spice paste along with the crushed galangal, sliced tomatoes, fine salt, instant broth powder, coconut milk (if using), and water. Stir the mixture well to combine all the flavors. -
Add the Fried Fish:
Gently add the fried tuna pieces into the pan, ensuring they are coated with the spice mixture. Allow the dish to simmer for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together, and the fish will absorb the delicious aromas. -
Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding sugar to balance the flavors. -
Serve:
Once the fish is well coated and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the Spicy Coconut Tuna hot, alongside a steaming bowl of white rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation methods, this dish provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins from the vegetables. The addition of coconut milk contributes to the dish’s creaminess, while the spices add warmth and depth.
Conclusion
Ikan Cakalang Santan Pedas is a flavorful and comforting dish that showcases the vibrant culinary traditions of Indonesia. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and its combination of spicy and creamy elements makes it a memorable addition to your recipe collection. Happy cooking!
