Kari Merah Ikan Tongkol: A Delightful Indonesian Fish Curry

Kari Merah Ikan Tongkol is a vibrant and aromatic dish that celebrates the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine. This hearty curry features tender mackerel fish simmered in a luscious coconut sauce, infused with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this recipe combines ease with exquisite taste, making it a wonderful addition to any culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

1 kg Ikan Tongkol (mackerel), cleaned and cut into pieces
1 bunch Kacang Panjang (long beans), cut into 3 cm lengths
8 large Cabe Hijau (green chilies), halved lengthwise
1 small pack (65 ml) Santan Kemasan (coconut milk)
2 sheets Daun Jeruk (lime leaves), torn into pieces
1 stalk Sereh (lemongrass), knotted and bruised
1 tsp Bubuk Kari (curry powder)
1 tsp Kaldu Bubuk (seasoning powder)
Salt to taste
Cooking Oil (for frying)
1.5 cups Water

Spice Paste

5 Shallots (Bawang Merah)
2 Garlic Cloves (Bawang Putih)
2-3 tbsp Cabe Merah Giling (ground red chilies; adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp Ketumbar Sangrai (toasted coriander seeds)
2 Kemiri (candlenuts), toasted
1 piece Kunyit (turmeric)
1 piece Jahe (ginger)

Cooking Steps

Follow these simple steps to create your Kari Merah Ikan Tongkol:

Fry the Fish: Heat a sufficient amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully add the ikan tongkol and fry until it is golden brown and cooked through on both sides. Be cautious not to overcook the fish, as you want it to remain tender. Once done, remove the fish and let it drain on a paper towel.
Prepare the Spice Base: In the same pan, add 3 tablespoons of cooking oil if needed, then sauté the spice paste along with the torn daun jeruk and the bruised sereh. Cook until the mixture is fragrant and the spices are well combined.
Add Water and Beans: Pour in the water and add the kacang panjang. Stir well and bring to a boil, allowing the beans to cook slightly.
Incorporate Coconut Milk: Once the mixture reaches a boil, add the coconut milk, curry powder, seasoning powder, and salt. Stir continuously to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.
Combine with Fish: Gently add the fried ikan tongkol into the pan. Carefully mix to ensure the fish is coated with the flavorful sauce, allowing it to simmer until the spices infuse into the fish.
Add Green Chilies: Just before finishing, toss in the halved cabe hijau. Stir gently and cook for a short time, as you want the chilies to retain their crisp texture.
Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the dish from heat. Serve your Kari Merah Ikan Tongkol hot, ideally with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal rich in protein and essential nutrients. Each serving is packed with the goodness of fish, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a wholesome choice for any dining occasion.

Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure!

Kari Merah Ikan Tongkol is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that showcases the beauty of Indonesian cooking. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this dish will surely become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and embark on this delightful culinary journey today!