Fresh Tongkol Pindang: A Flavorful Delight
Experience the vibrant taste of Fresh Tongkol Pindang, a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the savory flavors of the sea with aromatic spices. This recipe highlights the delightful taste of tongkol fish (skipjack tuna), enhanced by a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, making it a perfect choice for a family meal or a gathering with friends. Follow the step-by-step instructions to create a delicious dish that will surely impress!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tongkol fish | Approximately 700 grams |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 4, thinly sliced |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 2 cloves, crushed |
| Candlenut (Asam Kandis) | 1-2 pieces, crushed |
| Turmeric (Kunyit) | To taste (fresh or powdered) |
| Ginger (Jahe) | To taste (fresh or powdered) |
| Galangal (Lengkuas) | To taste (fresh or powdered) |
| Lemongrass (Serai) | 1 stalk, bruised |
| Bird’s eye chili (Rawit) | 5, sliced (adjust to taste) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chicken bouillon (Royko) | To taste |
| Sugar | A pinch (optional, as a substitute for MSG) |
| Lime juice | From 1 lime (for marinating) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Clean the tongkol fish thoroughly under cold running water. Rub the fish with salt and squeeze fresh lime juice over it, allowing it to marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This process helps to remove any fishy odors and enhances the flavor.
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Cook the Aromatics: In a pot, combine the sliced shallots, crushed garlic, crushed candlenut, turmeric, ginger, galangal, and bruised lemongrass. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil. Season the broth with salt and Royko (chicken bouillon) according to your taste preferences. For an additional layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of sugar as a natural alternative to MSG.
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Add the Fish: Once the broth is boiling, gently add the marinated tongkol fish to the pot. Allow the fish to simmer in the aromatic broth for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and tender. Ensure the fish is fully submerged in the broth for maximum flavor absorption.
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Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the fish from the pot. You can serve the tongkol pindang hot with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables or sambal for an extra kick.
Notes
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This recipe is versatile! Feel free to substitute tongkol fish with other types of fish, such as mayok or any other variety available in your region. Each type of fish will impart its unique flavor, making this dish adaptable to your taste.
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Enjoy your Fresh Tongkol Pindang with your favorite side dishes and relish the burst of flavors that this delightful meal offers. Happy cooking!
This flavorful and aromatic dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing the essence of Indonesian cuisine right to your table. Don’t hesitate to explore variations by incorporating your preferred spices or adjusting the heat level to suit your taste. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
