Woku Ikan Tongkol: A Flavorful Indonesian Fish Stew
Woku Ikan Tongkol is a delightful Indonesian dish that brings together the rich flavors of various herbs and spices, creating a vibrant and aromatic fish stew that is sure to please your palate. This recipe features the beloved tongkol fish, known for its meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. Perfect for serving with steamed rice, this dish is a wonderful representation of Indonesia’s culinary heritage.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan Tongkol (skipjack tuna), cut into pieces | 500 grams |
| Lime juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 6 leaves |
| Pandan leaves, sliced | 3 leaves |
| Turmeric leaf, sliced | 1 leaf |
| Lemongrass, smashed and finely sliced | 3 stalks |
| Basil leaves | 50 grams |
| Spring onions, cut into 1 cm lengths | 4 stalks |
| Tomato, cut into pieces | 1 fruit |
| Water | 700 ml |
Spice Paste:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 6 bulbs |
| Bird’s eye chili | 5 pieces |
| Turmeric, roasted and minced | 2 cm |
| Ginger | 2 cm |
| Candlenuts, roasted | 8 pieces |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by marinating the ikan tongkol with lime juice. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly to remove any excess lime flavor.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the finely blended spice paste, along with the kaffir lime leaves, pandan leaves, turmeric leaf, and lemongrass. Sauté until the mixture is fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
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Add Water and Fish: Pour in the 700 ml of water and bring it to a gentle boil. Carefully add the marinated ikan tongkol pieces to the pot. Allow the stew to simmer, cooking the fish through until it is fully cooked and tender.
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Incorporate Fresh Herbs and Vegetables: Once the fish is cooked, add the basil leaves, spring onions, and tomato pieces to the pot. Stir gently and let everything cook together for an additional few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.
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Serve: Once the dish is aromatic and well-combined, remove it from heat. Serve your Woku Ikan Tongkol hot, paired with steamed rice to soak up the delicious broth.
Nutritional Information
While the specific nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredient quantities and cooking methods, this dish is generally a good source of protein and essential vitamins, particularly from the herbs and vegetables used.
Enjoy the warm, spicy flavors of Woku Ikan Tongkol, and share this delightful dish with friends and family to experience the heart of Indonesian cuisine!
