Oseng Kepala Ikan Tongkol Pedas: A Spicy Anchovy Head Stir-Fry Recipe
Experience the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delightful dish, Oseng Kepala Ikan Tongkol Pedas, which translates to Spicy Anchovy Head Stir-Fry. This recipe features the rich and robust taste of fish heads, combined with a fragrant medley of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. The dish is perfect for those who appreciate the unique flavors of traditional Indonesian fare and want to impress family and friends with something out of the ordinary.
Ingredients
To create this spicy anchovy head stir-fry, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Anchovy head (ikan tongkol) | 1 head |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Small chilies | 8 pieces |
| Turmeric | 2 small pieces |
| Tomato | 1 small |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | To taste |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Sugar | A pinch |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities, here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Oseng Kepala Ikan Tongkol Pedas:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 700 mg |
Instructions
-
Preparation of the Fish Head: Begin by carefully separating the various sections of the fish head, as depicted in the accompanying image. This step is crucial as it will make frying and serving the dish much easier.
-
Frying the Fish Head: In a skillet, add a minimal amount of oil to the pan. Carefully add the fish head pieces, frying them until they become slightly golden brown and crispy. To prevent the oil from splattering, cover the skillet with a lid during frying. This not only keeps the kitchen clean but also ensures the fish cooks evenly.
-
Draining the Fish: Once the fish head is adequately fried, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps retain the dish’s freshness and avoids greasiness.
-
Preparing the Spice Mixture: While the fish is draining, gather all the previously mentioned spices—garlic, shallots, small chilies, turmeric, and tomato. Use a mortar and pestle to grind these ingredients together until they form a smooth paste. If you do not have a mortar and pestle, you can use a food processor for convenience.
-
Sautéing the Spices: In the same skillet used for frying the fish head, add the ground spice mixture. Sauté the mixture over medium heat until it becomes aromatic, releasing the delightful scents of garlic and spices throughout your kitchen.
-
Combining Fish and Spices: Once the spices are fragrant, add the fried fish head pieces back into the skillet. Toss them gently in the spice mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated and infused with flavor.
-
Adjusting the Consistency: After thoroughly mixing, pour in a small amount of water, adjusting to your preferred sauce consistency. This step enhances the flavor and allows the spices to meld beautifully with the fish.
-
Cooking to Perfection: Allow the mixture to cook, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of doneness. It’s essential to taste the dish as it cooks; if you prefer more heat, feel free to add additional chopped chilies.
-
Serving the Dish: Once fully cooked and flavorful, remove the skillet from the heat. Your Oseng Kepala Ikan Tongkol Pedas is now ready to be served. Plate it up and enjoy it with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Oseng Kepala Ikan Tongkol Pedas recipe not only showcases the delicious and unique flavors of Indonesian cuisine but also brings a sense of adventure to your dining table. The combination of spices elevates the humble fish head into a mouthwatering dish that promises to delight even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary journey with this exceptional dish!
