Abon Ikan Tongkol: A Flavorful Tuna Floss Recipe
Abon Ikan Tongkol, a delightful dish originating from Indonesia, showcases the rich flavors of tuna combined with a blend of aromatic spices and coconut milk. This savory, flaky tuna floss can be enjoyed as a topping on rice, in sandwiches, or as a delicious snack on its own. Below is a comprehensive recipe that guides you through creating this delectable dish, complete with ingredients, preparation steps, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to create Abon Ikan Tongkol, a dish that serves as a perfect balance of taste and nutrition:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan Tongkol (Tuna) | 800 grams |
| Lime Juice | 1 fruit (jeruk nipis) |
| Fried Shallots | 3 tablespoons |
| Kaffir Lime Leaves | 5 leaves (remove stems) |
| Bay Leaves | 2 leaves |
| Thick Coconut Milk | 200 ml |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | ½ teaspoon |
| Cooking Oil | 2 tablespoons |
Spice Paste
To elevate the flavors, prepare a spice paste with the following ingredients:
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Bird’s Eye Chilies | 3 pieces |
| Red Chilies | 2 large |
| Galangal | 3 cm |
| Ginger | 3 cm |
| Turmeric | 2 cm |
| Coriander | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional values can vary based on exact measurements and cooking methods, here’s a general idea per serving (assuming 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 180 kcal |
| Protein | 15 grams |
| Total Fat | 12 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 7 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the savory Abon Ikan Tongkol:
-
Prepare the Fish:
- Begin by marinating the ikan tongkol (tuna) with the juice of 1 lime. Allow the fish to sit for 15 minutes to absorb the citrus flavor. Afterward, rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess lime juice.
-
Steam the Fish:
- Place the marinated fish in a steamer and cook until thoroughly cooked and tender, which should take about 20-30 minutes. Once cooked, remove the fish from the steamer and let it cool slightly. Then, flake the fish into fine shreds.
-
Sauté the Spice Paste:
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste, which consists of the shallots, garlic, chilies, galangal, ginger, turmeric, and coriander, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown. This process should take about 3-5 minutes.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Once the spice mixture is aromatic, add the kaffir lime leaves and bay leaves. Stir for an additional minute, then pour in 200 ml of thick coconut milk. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until it thickens, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
-
Incorporate the Tuna:
- After the coconut milk has thickened, remove the kaffir lime leaves and bay leaves. Fold in the shredded fish into the coconut mixture, cooking gently over low heat until the mixture becomes dry and well combined. This may take another 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Finish the Dish:
- Once the Abon Ikan Tongkol has dried out to your liking, remove it from heat. Gently fold in 3 tablespoons of fried shallots for added texture and flavor. Allow the dish to cool completely.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Your homemade Abon Ikan Tongkol is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm or at room temperature over steamed rice, in a sandwich, or as a flavorful snack on its own.
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, making it a perfect addition to your meal prep routine.
Final Thoughts
Abon Ikan Tongkol is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that encapsulates the essence of Indonesian flavors. The combination of tuna with aromatic spices and coconut milk creates a dish that is rich in taste and history. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this delightful recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking journey, and may every bite be filled with love!
