Tuna Woku: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Tuna Woku is a vibrant and aromatic Indonesian dish that beautifully combines fresh tuna with a medley of spices and herbs. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with the fragrant aromas of traditional Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to indulge in something flavorful, Tuna Woku is sure to impress. Below is a detailed recipe that guides you through the steps of creating this delightful dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh tuna (with bones and flesh) | 500 grams |
| Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus) | |
| Red shallots | 5 pieces |
| Garlic (small) | 2 cloves |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 3 pieces |
| Ginger | 3 cm |
| Turmeric | 3 cm |
| Salt | to taste |
| Other Seasonings | |
| Lemongrass (small) | 2 stalks |
| Turmeric leaf (daun kunyit) | 1 piece |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | 2 leaves |
| Basil (kemangi) | a handful |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Red chili pepper | 1 piece |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 7 pieces |
| Lime or lemon | to taste |
| Water | 1000 ml |
Nutritional Information
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | Varies by salt added |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tuna: Begin by cleaning the tuna thoroughly under running water. Squeeze lime or lemon juice over the fish and let it marinate for about 10 minutes to eliminate any fishy odor. After marinating, rinse the tuna under clean water and set it aside.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the red shallots, garlic, candlenuts, ginger, turmeric, and salt. Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture is the heart of your Tuna Woku.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste, lemongrass, turmeric leaf, and kaffir lime leaves tied in a knot. Sauté the mixture for several minutes until it becomes fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.
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Cook the Tuna: Gently place the marinated tuna into the pot with the sautéed spices. Stir well to coat the fish evenly with the spice mixture. Once well mixed, pour in the water and bring the contents to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook until the tuna is fully cooked through.
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Add Vegetables: When the water begins to boil and the liquid reduces, add the sliced red chili, bird’s eye chilies, chopped tomato, and basil. Taste the broth; if it needs more salt, add it according to your preference. For an extra flavor boost, you can sprinkle in half a teaspoon of powdered broth (if desired).
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Final Touches: Allow the dish to simmer for a few more minutes until all the ingredients meld together beautifully. Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and transfer the Tuna Woku to a serving bowl.
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Serve: Enjoy your Tuna Woku warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and lime wedges on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or traditional Indonesian side dishes.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing Tuna: Opt for fresh, high-quality tuna for the best flavor and texture. If fresh is not available, you can use frozen tuna that has been properly thawed.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the number of chilies used according to your heat preference. For a milder dish, reduce the amount of bird’s eye chilies.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of steamed rice and a fresh cucumber salad to balance the dish’s rich flavors.
With its rich flavors and delightful aroma, Tuna Woku is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that captures the essence of Indonesian cooking. Enjoy this dish with family and friends for a memorable dining experience that’s sure to be a hit!
