Indonesian Spicy Tuna Curry: Gulai Ikan Tongkol Recipe

Gulai Ikan Tongkol: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Curry

Gulai Ikan Tongkol is a delightful Indonesian dish that showcases the rich and aromatic flavors of a traditional curry, perfect for a comforting meal with loved ones. This recipe features ikan tongkol (skipjack tuna), a fish that absorbs the spices beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both fragrant and savory. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy texture, making it an ideal companion to steamed rice.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ikan Tongkol (small-sized)	1 piece
Kara coconut milk	1 packet
Lemongrass (bruised)	2 stalks
Galangal (bruised)	3 cm
Bay leaves	4 leaves
Turmeric leaves	1 leaf
Green onion (sliced diagonally)	1 stalk
Ground Spices:
Red chili peppers	7 large
Shallots	4 cloves
Garlic	2 cloves
Ginger	3 cm
Fresh turmeric	6 cm
Ground pepper	1 tablespoon
Cooking oil	As needed
Salt	To taste
Sugar	To taste
Water	As needed

Instructions

Step	Instructions
1	Clean the ikan tongkol thoroughly and cut it into pieces according to your preference.
2	(Optional) Briefly boil the ikan tongkol in water for a few minutes to firm up the texture.
3	In a large pan, heat a little cooking oil over medium heat and sauté the ground spices until fragrant.
4	Add the bruised lemongrass, galangal, bay leaves, and turmeric leaves to the sautéed spices, stirring to combine.
5	Introduce the pieces of ikan tongkol to the pan, adding a splash of water to help create the sauce.
6	Season with salt and cook until the fish is halfway done.
7	Pour in the kara coconut milk, stirring gently; add more water if the sauce appears too thick.
8	Continue to stir carefully to prevent the coconut milk from splitting.
9	Add sugar and the sliced green onion to the pot, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
10	Cook until the sauce reduces slightly and the fish is fully cooked through.
11	Serve your Gulai Ikan Tongkol hot, accompanied by steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	20 g
Carbohydrates	8 g
Fat	15 g
Saturated Fat	10 g
Fiber	1 g
Sodium	200 mg
Sugar	2 g

Cooking Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, allow the gulai to simmer gently for longer, which allows the spices to meld together beautifully.
Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer red chili peppers according to your taste preference.
Pair with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the gulai.

Final Thoughts:

Gulai Ikan Tongkol is not just a dish; it’s an experience that encapsulates the heart and soul of Indonesian cuisine. The combination of spices, coconut milk, and tender fish creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this culinary adventure and bring a taste of Indonesia into your home!