Mangut Ikan Cakalang: A Deliciously Spicy Grilled Skipjack Tuna Dish
Introduction
Mangut Ikan Cakalang is a traditional Indonesian dish featuring the bold flavors of grilled skipjack tuna, known locally as ikan cakalang. The fish is steamed to perfection and then simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce made with a blend of spices and herbs. This dish is often enjoyed with steaming hot rice and is known for its slightly spicy and savory taste that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re looking to explore new flavors or simply enjoy a comforting meal, Mangut Ikan Cakalang will surely delight your palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Skipjack tuna (steamed) | 1 whole fish (ikan cakalang) |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Green onions | 5 stalks |
| Green or slightly ripe tomatoes | 3 pieces |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Seasoning (Royco chicken) | To taste |
| Galangal (smashed) | To taste |
| Spice Paste: | |
| Red shallots | 4 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Fresh turmeric | 3 cm (or 1.5 inches) |
| Candlenuts | 4 pieces |
| Coriander seeds | A pinch |
| Large red chili | 1 piece |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 10 pieces |
| Shrimp paste (optional) | A little |
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by blending together the red shallots, garlic, fresh turmeric, candlenuts, coriander seeds, large red chili, and bird’s eye chilies until you achieve a smooth paste. If you prefer a coarser texture, feel free to blend it to your desired consistency.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet or frying pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground spice paste along with the kaffir lime leaves and smashed galangal. Sauté the mixture until fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Create the Sauce: After the spices are fragrant, pour in approximately two glasses of water (around 400-500 ml). Stir the mixture gently to combine, then season with sugar, salt, and the seasoning of your choice (Royco chicken). Add the sliced green tomatoes to the pan. If you don’t have green tomatoes, you can substitute them with bilimbi fruit (blimbing wuluh) for a similar tangy flavor.
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Simmer with Fish: Carefully place the steamed skipjack tuna into the sauce. Allow the dish to simmer gently, ensuring that the fish absorbs all the rich flavors of the sauce. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the fish is heated through.
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Serve: Once done, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve your Mangut Ikan Cakalang hot, accompanied by steaming white rice. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that this dish offers.
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portions, here is a general breakdown for a serving of Mangut Ikan Cakalang:
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300-400 |
| Protein | 30-35g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-30g |
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
| Sodium | Varies (based on seasoning) |
Conclusion
Mangut Ikan Cakalang is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to the dining table. Its fragrant sauce, infused with the depth of traditional Indonesian spices, pairs beautifully with the tender fish and rice, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and full of character. Try making this dish at home and discover the wonderful tastes of Indonesian cuisine!
