Ikan Tongkol Balado (Spicy Tuna) Recipe
Introduction
Ikan Tongkol Balado, also known as Tongkol Pedas, is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the rich flavors of tuna with a spicy, aromatic sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals and want to explore the vibrant tastes of Indonesian cuisine. With its fragrant blend of spices, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and make for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with steamed rice.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need for this sumptuous dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan tongkol (tuna), cut | 250 grams |
| Red chilies (cabe merah) | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 8 pieces |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 8 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 4 cloves |
| Large tomato | 1 piece |
| Lemongrass (sereh) | 1 stalk |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 2 leaves |
| Water | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Seasoning (penyedap) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional values can vary based on serving size and preparation methods, here’s a general overview of the key nutritional components for a typical serving of Ikan Tongkol Balado:
| Nutritional Component | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 kcal |
| Protein | Approximately 20 grams |
| Total Fat | Approximately 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | Approximately 10 grams |
| Fiber | Approximately 2 grams |
| Sodium | Varies (based on seasoning) |
Preparation Steps
To create this delectable Ikan Tongkol Balado, follow these step-by-step instructions:
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Prepare the Tuna: Begin by frying the cut pieces of ikan tongkol in hot oil until they are lightly cooked. Be cautious not to fry them too long, as this can make the fish tough and chewy.
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Make the Spice Paste: While the fish is frying, combine the shallots, garlic, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and the large tomato in a mortar and pestle (cobek) for the most authentic flavor. Grind the ingredients into a smooth paste, ensuring the mixture is well blended.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In a pan, heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground spice mixture and sauté it until it becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste. Don’t forget to add the lemongrass and bay leaves for extra aroma.
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Add Liquid: Once the spices are nicely cooked, pour in some water to create a sauce. The amount of water can vary depending on how saucy you prefer your dish. Season with salt and your preferred seasoning to taste.
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Incorporate the Fish: After adjusting the sauce’s flavor, gently add the fried ikan tongkol to the pan. Stir everything together carefully to coat the fish with the spicy sauce, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld beautifully.
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Final Taste Check: Before serving, do a final taste check. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or spice as desired.
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Serve: Your Ikan Tongkol Balado is now ready to be served! This dish pairs wonderfully with warm steamed rice, allowing you to savor the spicy and savory notes of the fish.
Conclusion
Enjoy this delightful Ikan Tongkol Balado as a centerpiece for a family meal or as a special dish to impress your guests. The combination of spicy flavors and tender fish will surely make this recipe a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking and selamat menikmati!
