Tongkol Balado: A Spicy Indonesian Delight
Description:
Tongkol Balado is a beloved Indonesian dish that features tuna (tongkol) marinated in a zesty blend of spices and herbs, simmered to perfection in a vibrant chili sauce. This recipe highlights the perfect balance of flavors, offering a delightful experience for anyone seeking a taste of Indonesia.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large tuna (tongkol) | 1 whole |
| Sugar | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | As needed |
| Lime (jeruk nipis) | 1 whole |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | 4 leaves |
| Ground Spices: | |
| Large red chili peppers | 5 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chili (caba rawit) | 15 pieces |
| Galangal | 1 finger length |
| Turmeric | 2 finger lengths |
| Ginger | 1 finger length |
| Shallots | 10 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
Instructions
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Marinate the Tuna:
Begin by cutting the large tuna into pieces and removing any bones. Squeeze the juice of the lime over the fish, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for approximately 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the citrus to enhance the flavor and tenderize the fish. -
-
Prepare the Spice Blend:
In a blender, combine the large red chili peppers, bird’s eye chili, galangal, turmeric, ginger, shallots, and garlic. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. -
Sauté the Spices:
In a pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the blended spice mixture and sauté until it is fragrant and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the kaffir lime leaves and stir until they are wilted and aromatic. -
Cook the Tuna:
Gently place the marinated tuna pieces into the pan with the sautéed spices. Allow the fish to cook for a few minutes until it changes color. Sprinkle in the salt and sugar, mixing well to ensure the fish is evenly coated. -
Simmer:
Add a little water to the pan, just enough to create a sauce. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the fish to cook through completely, while the liquid reduces and intensifies. -
Serve:
Once the tuna is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Tongkol Balado is now ready to be served! Enjoy it with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 400 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Enjoy the bold flavors of Tongkol Balado, a dish that embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner!
