Spicy Indonesian Tuna Stew with Fresh Herbs

Pampis Tongkol: A Flavorful Indonesian Tuna Delight

Ingredients:

• 350 grams of tuna, cut into pieces (ikan tongkol)
• 2 turmeric leaves (daun kunyit)
• 1 pandan leaf (daun pandan)
• 5 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk purut)

For the Spice Paste:

• 14 shallots (bawang merah)
• 8 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
• 3 red bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit merah)
• 15 red chilies (cabe merah, adjust to taste; this recipe is not very spicy)
• 2 stalks of lemongrass (serai)
• 1.5-inch piece of ginger (jahe)
• 2-inch piece of turmeric (kunyit, or use turmeric paste)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Sugar (optional, to taste)

Additional Ingredients:

• A handful of basil leaves (daun kemangi)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Slice the turmeric leaves, pandan leaf, and kaffir lime leaves thinly.
   • Tear the tuna pieces into smaller chunks.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, red bird’s eye chilies, red chilies, lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric. Blend until smooth.

3. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Heat a pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Sauté the sliced turmeric leaves, pandan leaf, and kaffir lime leaves until fragrant.
   • Add the blended spice paste to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the paste becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate.

4. Simmer the Dish:

   • Add approximately 100 ml of water to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
   • Season with salt to taste. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, add a bit of sugar.

5. Add Tuna:

   • Add the tuna pieces to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tuna is well-coated with the spice paste and the liquid has mostly evaporated, leaving a thick, flavorful sauce.

6. Finish with Basil:

   • Add a handful of basil leaves and stir well to combine.

7. Serve:

   • Once the tuna is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Serve the Pampis Tongkol hot with steamed rice.

Enjoy this aromatic and spicy Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the richness of tuna with a vibrant mix of herbs and spices!