Balado Tongkol with Quail Eggs: A Spicy Indonesian Delight
Balado Tongkol with Quail Eggs is a delicious and vibrant dish that highlights the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine. This dish features smoky mackerel (ikan tongkol) complemented by the tender texture of quail eggs, all enveloped in a spicy and aromatic chili paste. Perfect for serving alongside a steaming bowl of rice, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and inviting aroma.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked Mackerel (Ikan Tongkol) | 250 grams (1/4 kg) |
| Quail Eggs | 15 eggs |
| Large Red Chilies (Cabai Merah Besar) | 7 chilies |
| Bird’s Eye Chilies (Cabai Rawit) | 10 chilies |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 6 shallots |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 3 cloves |
| Pepper (Merica) | To taste |
| Sugar (Gula) | To taste |
| Salt (Garam) | To taste |
| Bay Leaves (Daun Salam) | 2 leaves |
| Galangal (Lengkuas, crushed) | 1 stalk |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by finely grinding the shallots and both types of chilies to create a smooth paste. This blend will serve as the base for the dish.
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Fry the Fish: In a frying pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil and fry the smoked mackerel until it is half-dry. This step will enhance the flavor of the fish, providing a lovely smokiness.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary. Next, sauté the ground spice paste, adding the crushed galangal and bay leaves. Cook this mixture until it changes color and releases a fragrant aroma, about 3-5 minutes.
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Season the Mixture: Add salt, sugar, and pepper to the sautéed mixture to taste. It’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning at this stage to ensure the flavors are balanced.
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Combine the Ingredients: Gently incorporate the fried mackerel and quail eggs into the spice mixture. Stir everything together, allowing the eggs to soak up the spicy flavors for about 2-3 minutes.
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Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat and serve the Balado Tongkol with Quail Eggs alongside a steaming bowl of white rice. This dish pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
This Balado Tongkol with Quail Eggs is a wonderful representation of the bold and flavorful culinary traditions of Indonesia. The combination of smoky fish, tender quail eggs, and spicy seasoning creates a delightful dish that will surely be a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy the rich flavors and warmth of this Indonesian classic, perfect for any occasion.
