Spicy Tuna and Tofu Lodeh: A Flavorful Indonesian Coconut Stew

Spicy Tuna and Tofu Lodeh

Ingredients

• 10 pieces tuna (tongkol), cut into portions
• ½ block firm tofu (tahu), diced
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 7 shallots (bawang merah)
  • 4 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
  • 3 candlenuts (kemiri)
  • 2 cm fresh turmeric (kunyit)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (merica)
  • ½ teaspoon coriander (ketumbar)
  • 1 large red chili (cabe merah)
  • 10 small chili peppers (cabe kecil), adjust to taste
  • Salt and sugar, to taste
• 1 sachet coconut milk (santan kara)
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (daun serai), bruised
• 500 ml water (approximately)
• Whole small chilies, optional for added heat
• Fried shallots, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna and Tofu:
   Begin by frying the tuna and diced tofu in a pan until they are golden brown. This step adds a delightful texture and flavor to the dish.

2. Make the Spice Paste:
   While the fish and tofu are frying, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, black pepper, coriander, red chili, and small chilies in a blender. Blend until smooth, creating a fragrant spice paste.

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3. Sauté the Spice Paste:
   In a large pot, heat some oil and add the blended spice paste along with the bruised lemongrass and bay leaves. Sauté the mixture over medium heat until it becomes aromatic and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

4. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the fried tuna and tofu to the pot. Pour in approximately 500 ml of water and the sachet of coconut milk. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

5. Add Heat:
   If desired, add whole small chilies for an extra kick. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.

6. Simmer and Taste:
   As the broth simmers, keep an eye on the liquid level. If it reduces too much, feel free to add more water to achieve your preferred consistency. Taste the broth and adjust with salt and sugar according to your liking.

7. Serve:
   Once the dish is cooked to perfection and the flavors have melded together beautifully, serve your Spicy Tuna and Tofu Lodeh hot. Finish with a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots on top for an added layer of flavor and texture.

Enjoy your meal!

This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and brings the warmth of traditional Indonesian flavors to your table, making it a delightful addition to any meal.