Spicy Balado Tuna Stew with Kaffir Lime Leaves

Balado Tongkol (Without MSG)

Experience the vibrant flavors of Indonesia with this delicious Balado Tongkol recipe, featuring tuna in a spicy and aromatic sauce. This recipe is designed without MSG, ensuring a pure and wholesome taste.

Ingredients

• 8 pieces of tuna (tongkol)
• 3 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 4 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
• For the spice paste:
  • 7 small red chilies (cabai rawit setan)
  • 10 red chilies (cabai merah)
  • 6 shallots (bawang merah)
  • 3 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
  • 1 medium tomato (tomat)
  • 1 cm ginger (jahe) – optional, used to reduce the fishy smell
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (in this recipe, I use palm sugar or gula aren)
  • 50 ml water
  • Oil for frying and sautéing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna:

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   • Clean the tuna pieces thoroughly. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the tuna until golden and crispy. Be cautious of hot oil splatters. Once done, drain the fish on paper towels.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a mortar and pestle or food processor, grind the small red chilies, red chilies, shallots, garlic, tomato, and ginger (if using) into a smooth paste.

3. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a generous amount of oil in a wok or large pan. Add the ground spice paste along with the bay leaves and kaffir lime leaves. Sauté the paste over medium heat until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

4. Simmer the Sauce:

   • Add the water to the pan and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the paste darkens in color and the water has mostly evaporated.

5. Combine and Adjust:

   • Season the paste with salt and palm sugar. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Add the Tuna:

   • Gently fold the fried tuna into the spice paste, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve:

   • Once the tuna is thoroughly mixed with the sauce and well-heated, turn off the heat. Transfer the Balado Tongkol to a serving dish and enjoy with steamed rice or as a side dish.

This Balado Tongkol offers a rich, spicy flavor profile without the use of MSG, bringing an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine to your table. Enjoy this flavorful dish that highlights the natural essence of the ingredients!