Tongkol Masak Sarden: A Delicious Indonesian Sardine Style Dish

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Tongkol Masak Sarden, an exquisite Indonesian dish that showcases the delightful richness of tongkol fish, often enjoyed for its tender texture and savory taste. This recipe transforms fresh tongkol into a flavorful meal, perfect for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

To create this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:

2 baskets of tongkol fish (approximately 1 large basket containing 2 sizable fish)
5 shallots
2 cloves of garlic
1 ripe tomato
1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
1 tablespoon of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
1 tablespoon of oil (for sautéing)
100 ml of water

Preparation Steps

Clean the Tongkol: Start by thoroughly cleaning the tongkol fish. Remove the central bones and any impurities. If you prefer, you can also discard the fish heads.
Fry the Fish: Lightly fry the tongkol in a bit of oil just until the surface is slightly dry. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the fish. Once done, set the fish aside.
Prepare the Aromatics: Thinly slice the shallots and set aside. Smash the garlic cloves and finely chop them. Finally, dice the tomato into small cubes.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and chopped garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant and translucent. Then, incorporate the diced tomato, cooking until it softens and breaks down.
Create the Sauce: Pour in the water and stir well to combine. Add the sweet soy sauce and salt, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Add the Tongkol: Carefully place the fried tongkol into the pan. Gently stir to coat the fish in the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the fish to absorb the seasoning. Taste again to ensure the seasoning is to your liking.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the dish from the heat. Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy your delicious Tongkol Masak Sarden hot with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.

Cooking Tips

Freshness Matters: For the best flavor, always opt for the freshest tongkol fish available. If possible, buy it from a local market where the fish is freshly caught.
Adjusting Flavors: Feel free to modify the amount of salt or sweet soy sauce according to your taste preferences. Some may prefer a sweeter or saltier profile, so don’t hesitate to experiment.
Side Dish Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed greens, or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the fish.

Nutritional Information

This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a wholesome meal option. The combination of fish and vegetables makes for a nutritious dish, packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for family meals.

Conclusion

Tongkol Masak Sarden is a flavorful celebration of Indonesian culinary traditions, combining simplicity with vibrant tastes. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat your family to a special dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dining table. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!