Spicy Shredded Tuna Delight: Indonesian Tongkol Suwir Pedas

Spicy Shredded Tuna (Tongkol Suwir Pedas)

Dive into the vibrant flavors of this Indonesian classic with our Spicy Shredded Tuna recipe, or Tongkol Suwir Pedas. Perfectly seasoned and delightfully spicy, this dish features tender flakes of tuna infused with a rich, aromatic blend of spices. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering dish from start to finish.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole cooked tuna (tongkol): If using pre-cooked tuna, simply shred it. If using raw tuna, clean it, then marinate with lime juice and salt before frying.
• 3 kaffir lime leaves: Thinly sliced, after removing the central rib.
• 2 stalks lemongrass: Lightly smashed to release flavor.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds depth to the dish.
• 1 piece galangal: Lightly crushed.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Adjust to taste.
• Seasoning (optional): Adjust based on personal preference.
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 20-25 red bird’s eye chilies: Adjust according to your heat preference.
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 5 shallots
  • 1 piece ginger
  • 1/2 piece turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tuna:

   • If using raw tuna, clean the fish and rub it with lime juice and salt. Rinse thoroughly, then fry until cooked through. Once cooled, shred the tuna into bite-sized pieces using a fork.
   • If using pre-cooked tuna, simply fry it and shred it into pieces. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the red bird’s eye chilies, garlic, shallots, ginger, and turmeric into a smooth paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle.

3. Cook the Spices:

   • Heat some of the oil used for frying the tuna in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste, lemongrass, galangal, bay leaf, and kaffir lime leaves.
   • Sauté the mixture until fragrant and the spices are well-cooked.

4. Combine Tuna and Spices:

   • Add the shredded tuna to the pan with the cooked spices. Stir well to ensure the tuna is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
   • If the mixture appears dry, add a little more oil.

5. Season and Simmer:

   • Stir in the sweet soy sauce, then adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar according to your taste. Cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve:

   • Once the flavors are well combined and the dish is thoroughly heated, remove from heat.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice for a delicious meal.

Enjoy your homemade Tongkol Suwir Pedas, a delightful blend of spicy, savory, and aromatic flavors that pairs perfectly with a steaming bowl of rice.