Spicy Indonesian Mackerel in Tomato Sauce

Sardines with Spicy Tomato Sauce (Sarden Ikan Tongkol)

Ingredients:

• 2 pieces of mackerel (partially fried)
• Cooking oil, as needed

For the Spice Paste:

• 10 red chilies
• 5 bird’s eye chilies (or adjust to taste)
• 5 shallots
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 candlenut (kemiri)
• Fresh turmeric, as needed
• Palm sugar (or brown sugar), as needed
• Water, as needed
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Fried shallots, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Begin by boiling the red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic, and tomatoes in a pot with enough water to cover them. Allow them to simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until they soften and release their flavors.

2. Blend the Spice Paste:

   • Once the spices have cooked, drain them and transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the bay leaves, candlenut, fresh turmeric, and palm sugar to the blender. Blend the mixture until smooth. Season with salt and granulated sugar to taste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a small amount of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour in the blended spice paste and cook, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the paste and the flavors meld together.

4. Simmer the Sardines:

   • Add a little water to the skillet, followed by the bay leaves. Stir to combine. Gently place the partially fried mackerel pieces into the skillet, ensuring they are well coated with the spice paste. Allow the mixture to simmer until the liquid reduces and thickens to a desired consistency.

5. Finish the Dish:

   • Once the sauce has thickened, stir in sliced green onions and fried shallots for added flavor and crunch.

6. Serve:

   • Your Sarden Ikan Tongkol is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with steamed rice or as a flavorful side dish.

This traditional Indonesian recipe brings together the rich flavors of spicy tomato sauce and tender mackerel, offering a delicious and comforting meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and savor every bite of this classic dish.