Tongkol Uleg Kimbek: A Delicious Indonesian Delight
Embark on a culinary journey to Indonesia with Tongkol Uleg Kimbek, a flavorful dish made from tongkol pindang (cooked skipjack tuna), infused with a vibrant blend of spices and aromatics that bring out its natural flavors. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. It can last up to three days when stored properly, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick weekday dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tongkol Pindang | 1 whole |
| Garlic | 10 cloves |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Red Bird’s Eye Chili | 15 or to taste |
| Bay Leaves | 3 leaves |
| Lemongrass | 1 piece |
| Ginger | 1 small piece |
| Galangal | 1 small piece |
| Shrimp Paste | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Cooking Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lime Leaves (finely chopped) | 6 leaves |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tongkol: Begin by mashing the tongkol pindang until it reaches a smooth consistency. Set aside for later use.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle (or a food processor), combine 5 cloves of garlic, 10 bird’s eye chilies, and the shrimp paste. Grind them together until you obtain a fine paste.
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Slice Remaining Ingredients: Finely slice the remaining bird’s eye chilies, garlic, and shallots.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste along with the sliced ingredients, lemongrass, galangal, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, which should take about 2–3 minutes.
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Combine with Tongkol: Once the spices are aromatic, add the mashed tongkol to the pan. Stir well to combine everything, cooking until the mixture is dry and crumbly, ensuring that it does not clump together.
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Finishing Touches: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, stir in the finely chopped lime leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
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Store and Serve: Let the dish cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Enjoy Your Dish: Serve your Tongkol Uleg Kimbek as a delicious side dish with rice or as a filling in wraps. Enjoy this rich and spicy treat with your loved ones!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
With its unique blend of flavors and textures, Tongkol Uleg Kimbek is sure to become a favorite in your home. The combination of aromatic spices and tender fish makes it a delightful dish that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy the experience of making and savoring this wonderful meal!
