Semur Ikan Tuna: A Flavorful Indonesian Stew
Semur Ikan Tuna is a delightful Indonesian dish that highlights the rich flavors of tuna fillets simmered in a savory sauce infused with aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a comforting yet exotic meal, combining the deliciousness of tuna with traditional Indonesian spices. Serve it over rice for a satisfying dinner that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuna fillets | 5 pieces |
| Spice Paste: | |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 2 pieces |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 2 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 2 cloves |
| Ground pepper (lada bubuk) | to taste |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 4 tablespoons |
| Sugar, salt, and seasoning (penyedap) | to taste |
| Water | as needed |
| Cooking oil | for frying |
| Salt and lime juice (jeruk nipis) | to taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tuna: Start by marinating the tuna fillets in a mixture of lime juice and salt. Allow them to sit for about 30 minutes; this step helps eliminate any fishy odors and enhances the flavor of the tuna.
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Fry the Tuna: After marinating, heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tuna fillets. Fry them until they are golden brown on both sides. Remove the fried tuna and set aside.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In the same pan, use the leftover oil to sauté the spice paste. Blend the candlenuts, shallots, and garlic in a food processor or mortar and pestle until smooth. Cook this spice paste in the oil until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
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Add Aromatics: Next, add the bay leaves (daun salam) and lemongrass (sereh) to the pan. Stir them into the sautéed spice paste for added aroma.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in water, followed by the sweet soy sauce. Gently place the fried tuna fillets back into the pan. Stir to coat the tuna with the sauce and let everything simmer together.
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Season to Taste: Allow the stew to cook for a few minutes until the flavors meld. Taste the sauce and adjust with sugar, salt, and seasoning according to your preference.
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Final Touches: Once the sauce has reduced slightly and the tuna is cooked through, remove the pan from heat. Transfer the Semur Ikan Tuna to a serving dish.
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Serve and Garnish: Top the dish with crispy fried shallots for a delightful crunch and serve it warm over steamed rice or alongside your favorite side dishes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Cooking Tips
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate the fish, the better the flavor will be. You can even prepare the fish the day before.
- Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding some fresh chilies or chili powder to the spice paste.
- Leftover Sauce: The sauce is also great for soaking into other dishes, so don’t hesitate to serve extra on the side or use it for other seafood dishes!
Enjoy the rich and comforting flavors of this Semur Ikan Tuna, a dish that not only delights the palate but also offers a glimpse into the beautiful culinary traditions of Indonesia. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home!
