Spicy Basil Skipjack Tuna Stir-Fry

Tongkol Cakalang with Basil

Ingredients

• 2 Skipjack Tuna (Ikan Tongkol): Use fresh or frozen, depending on availability.

Spice Paste (Optional)

• 7 Shallots (Bawang Merah): For a rich, aromatic base.
• 5 Garlic Cloves (Bawang Putih): Essential for depth of flavor.
• Bird’s Eye Chili (Cabe Rawit Merah): Adjust to taste or skip for less heat.
• Ginger (Jahe): To add a warm spice note.

Sliced Aromatics

• Lime Leaves (Daun Jeruk): For a citrusy aroma.
• Lemongrass (Batang Sereh): Adds a refreshing, herbal flavor.
• Brown Sugar or Granulated Sugar (Gula Merah atau Gula Pasir): Balances the dish’s savoriness.
• Bay Leaves (Daun Salam): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Galangal (Lengkuas): For its unique, earthy taste.
• Salt (Garam): Essential seasoning.
• Flavor Enhancer (Penyedap Rasa): Optional, for added depth.
• Water (Sedikit Air): To adjust consistency as needed.
• Cooking Oil (Minyak Goreng): For sautéing.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves (Daun Kemangi): The star ingredient that adds freshness.

Instructions

1. Steam the Fish: Begin by steaming the skipjack tuna for about 10 minutes until cooked through. After steaming, allow the fish to cool slightly, then shred it according to your preference.

2. Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a pan, heat a splash of cooking oil. Add the blended spice paste along with the bruised galangal, bay leaves, lime leaves, and lemongrass. Sauté until fragrant, stirring occasionally.

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3. Add Seasoning: Incorporate the brown sugar, salt, and flavor enhancer into the sautéed mixture. This will create a balanced base for your dish.

4. Combine with Fish: Gently add the shredded skipjack tuna into the pan, mixing well with the spice mixture until everything is well coated and heated through.

5. Final Touch: Once everything is cooked and flavors have melded together, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add the fresh basil leaves, giving it a quick stir to combine. Cook just until the basil is wilted.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer your fragrant Tongkol Cakalang with Basil to a serving dish and enjoy this deliciously aromatic dish. Happy cooking!

Tips

• This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
• Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilis according to your taste.

Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure!

Dive into this delightful recipe and explore the wonderful flavors of Indonesian cuisine right in your kitchen. Enjoy the journey!