Tongkol Lombok Ijo: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Ingredients
- 1 whole tongkol fish, cleaned and cut into 4 pieces
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 shallots, minced
- 15 green chilies, sliced
- 3 bird’s eye chilies (adjust for spiciness)
- 1 piece ginger, peeled and smashed
- 1 piece galangal
- 2 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- Bouillon powder to taste
- Sugar to taste
- Sweet soy sauce to taste
- Oil for sautéing
- 1 cup water
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Start by frying the tongkol fish pieces in hot oil, ensuring they are cooked through but not overly dry, which can make them tough. Aim for a light golden color.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, then add the minced garlic and shallots. Sauté until fragrant and the shallots are translucent, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add the Herbs: Next, introduce the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, smashed ginger, and galangal to the pan. Sauté these ingredients for a few moments to release their aromatic essence.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the water, followed by the sweet soy sauce, sugar, salt, and bouillon powder. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the flavors begin to harmonize.
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Combine the Fish and Chilies: Gently place the fried tongkol pieces into the pan, then add the sliced green and bird’s eye chilies. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the fish absorb the rich, flavorful broth.
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Serve: Once the fish is well coated with the sauce and infused with the spices, it’s time to serve. Enjoy your Tongkol Lombok Ijo with steamed rice for a delightful meal.
Enjoy Your Meal!
This Tongkol Lombok Ijo is not only a feast for the palate but also a celebration of traditional Indonesian flavors. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of spices, making it a memorable dish for family gatherings or casual dinners. Happy cooking! 😊
