Indonesian Spicy Tuna Stew with Coconut Milk

Spicy Tuna Stew (Tuna Kuah Pedas)

Dive into the vibrant flavors of this traditional Indonesian Spicy Tuna Stew, known as Tuna Kuah Pedas. This dish, featuring tender chunks of tuna simmered in a rich and aromatic coconut milk broth, is perfect for those who enjoy a touch of spice in their meals. Follow this recipe to create a mouthwatering stew that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg tuna, cut into chunks
• 600 ml thick coconut milk
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 3 cm galangal, bruised
• Lime juice (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Palm sugar (to taste)
• Seasoning (to taste)

For the Spice Paste:

• 5 shallots
• 3 cloves garlic
• 3 candlenuts
• 5 red chilies
• 3 bird’s eye chilies (plus 3 more for garnish)
• 3 cm ginger
• 3 cm turmeric, roasted
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp black pepper powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tuna: Clean the tuna pieces thoroughly and squeeze with lime juice. Let it marinate for 15 minutes to remove any fishy odor.

2. Fry the Tuna: Heat oil in a pan and fry the tuna pieces until they are crispy and dry. Set aside.

3. Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine shallots, garlic, candlenuts, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, ginger, roasted turmeric, coriander powder, and black pepper powder. Blend into a smooth paste.

4. Cook the Spice Paste: Heat some oil in a pot and sauté the spice paste until it is fragrant and cooked through.

5. Add Aromatics: Add bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and galangal to the pot. Stir for a few minutes until the leaves release their aromas.

6. Incorporate Coconut Milk: Pour in the thick coconut milk and stir continuously to prevent it from curdling. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.

7. Add the Tuna: Once the coconut milk is boiling, add the fried tuna pieces into the pot. Stir gently and let it simmer until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld, allowing the fish to absorb the spice and coconut flavors.

8. Season the Stew: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt, palm sugar, and additional seasoning as needed. Add more sliced bird’s eye chilies if you prefer extra heat.

9. Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with additional bird’s eye chilies. Serve the spicy tuna stew hot with steamed rice or as a main dish.

This Spicy Tuna Stew is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish for any meal. Enjoy the rich, spicy, and aromatic experience of this traditional Indonesian favorite!