Pepes Tongkol Suroboyo’an: A Delicious Indonesian Delight
Discover the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine with Pepes Tongkol Suroboyo’an, a delightful dish featuring tender mackerel fish wrapped in aromatic spices and herbs. This traditional recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills the kitchen with enticing aromas. Perfect for those looking to explore the depths of Indonesian flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium-sized mackerel fish | 1 whole |
| Red shallots | 2 cloves |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Tomato | 1 whole |
| Bird’s eye chili (optional) | 2 pieces (for heat) |
| Candlenut | 1 piece |
| Turmeric (fresh) | A small piece |
| Ginger | A small piece |
| Basil (Kemangi) | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer (or salt) | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by cleaning the mackerel fish thoroughly, ensuring that all scales and entrails are removed. Pat dry with a paper towel.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, lightly fry the red shallots, garlic, candlenut, bird’s eye chili, tomato, turmeric, and ginger until fragrant. This step will infuse the oil with the vibrant flavors of the spices.
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Make the Spice Paste: Once sautéed, transfer the mixture to a mortar and pestle. Add fresh basil leaves along with sugar and salt to taste. Grind everything together until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
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Season the Fish: Take the prepared mackerel and coat it thoroughly with the spice paste, ensuring that the fish is well covered inside and out. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor.
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Wrap the Fish: Once the fish is coated in the spice paste, wrap it securely in banana leaves, creating a neat parcel. If banana leaves are unavailable, aluminum foil can be used as an alternative.
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Steam the Fish: Place the wrapped fish in a steamer basket and steam for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. This gentle cooking method helps retain moisture and enhances the flavors.
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Grill for Aroma: After steaming, briefly grill the wrapped fish over an open flame or on a stovetop grill. This step adds a delightful smoky aroma to the dish, making it even more appealing.
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Serve and Enjoy: Carefully unwrap the banana leaves, allowing the fragrant steam to escape. Serve the Pepes Tongkol hot, accompanied by steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 |
| Protein | 30 grams |
| Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | Varies (based on seasoning) |
| Sugar | 1 gram |
Conclusion
Pepes Tongkol Suroboyo’an is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies the warmth and richness of Indonesian culinary tradition. With its blend of spices and fresh herbs, each bite transports you to the vibrant streets of Surabaya. Gather your ingredients and bring a taste of Indonesia to your table with this exquisite dish that promises to impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!
