Krecek / Oseng Pindang Ikan Tongkol
Krecek, or Oseng Pindang Ikan Tongkol, is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of pindang (pickled) tuna with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Perfect for a comforting meal, this recipe balances savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes, making it an irresistible choice for seafood lovers. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure as we prepare this delicious Indonesian favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pindang ikan tongkol | 10 small pieces |
| Salt | To taste |
| Granulated sugar | To taste |
| Instant broth powder | To taste |
| Sweet soy sauce | To taste |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 3 leaves |
| Ginger | 1 small piece, crushed |
| Green onions | 1 stalk, sliced into 1 cm pieces |
| Water | As needed |
Aromatic Ingredients (to slice)
| Aromatic Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Large chilies (cabe gendot) | 5 pieces |
| Red bird’s eye chilies | 5 pieces |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
Instructions
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Prepare the Aromatics: Start by heating a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced garlic, chopped onion, crushed ginger, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Sauté these ingredients until they release their fragrant aromas, typically around 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate the Chilies and Tomato: Add the sliced large chilies and red bird’s eye chilies to the pan, followed by the diced tomato. Stir everything together, allowing the chilies and tomato to soften and meld with the other ingredients.
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Add Liquid: Pour in half a glass of water, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle boil. This step helps to combine the flavors and create a savory broth.
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Introduce the Pindang Ikan Tongkol: Carefully add the pindang ikan tongkol pieces to the pan. Season the dish with salt, sugar, instant broth powder, and sweet soy sauce to taste. Mix gently to ensure the fish is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.
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Simmer to Perfection: Let the mixture simmer on low heat, allowing the fish to absorb all the wonderful spices and flavors. Cook until the broth reduces and thickens, ensuring the fish is tender and the sauce has a rich, concentrated flavor. This typically takes around 10-15 minutes.
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Final Taste Check: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or sugar to achieve your desired flavor balance.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked to perfection, remove the pan from heat and garnish with the sliced green onions. Serve Krecek / Oseng Pindang Ikan Tongkol warm with steamed rice, allowing its delightful flavors to shine.
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used, here is a general overview:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200-250 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
This Krecek recipe not only offers a wonderful taste but also encapsulates the essence of Indonesian cuisine, making it a beloved dish for family gatherings and special occasions. Enjoy the cooking journey and the delicious results that await!
