Tongkol Lombok Ijo: A Flavorful Indonesian Mackerel Dish
If you’re seeking a vibrant and delicious dish that showcases the unique flavors of Indonesian cuisine, Tongkol Lombok Ijo is an excellent choice. This recipe features mackerel tuna (tongkol) cooked with a medley of spices and green chilies, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic meal that’s sure to impress. Below, you’ll find a detailed ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, and nutritional information to guide you in preparing this delectable dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh mackerel tuna (tongkol) | 1 fish, cleaned and cut into 4 pieces |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Shallots | 4 cloves |
| Green chilies | 15 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (optional) | 3 pieces (for extra heat) |
| Ginger | 1 piece (washed, peeled, and crushed) |
| Galangal | 1 piece |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chicken broth powder | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Sweet soy sauce | To taste |
| Cooking oil | For sautéing |
| Water | 1 cup (approximately 250 ml) |
Instructions
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Fry the Fish: Begin by frying the mackerel pieces in a pan with hot oil. Ensure that the fish is cooked through but avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming tough and rubbery. Aim for a golden color on both sides. Once done, remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and heat it. Finely chop the garlic and shallots, then add them to the pan. Sauté until fragrant and the shallots have softened.
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Add Spices: Incorporate the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, ginger, and galangal into the pan. Continue to sauté for a few moments until the spices release their aroma.
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Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the water, followed by the sweet soy sauce, sugar, salt, and chicken broth powder. Stir the mixture well until the ingredients are fully dissolved.
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Combine and Cook: Gently place the fried mackerel back into the pan along with the green chilies. Allow everything to simmer together, letting the fish absorb the flavors of the sauce. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the fish thoroughly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the dish is cooked and the flavors have melded together beautifully, transfer it to a serving plate. Enjoy your Tongkol Lombok Ijo with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. Happy cooking! 😊
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Conclusion
Tongkol Lombok Ijo is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that reflects the essence of Indonesian cooking. With the combination of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to the table. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and happy cooking!
