Spicy Tuna Head Stew: Authentic Woku Kepala Tongkol Recipe

Woku Kepala Tongkol: A Delicious Indonesian Fish Dish

Woku Kepala Tongkol is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the delightful combination of fish and aromatic spices, making it a standout in Indonesian cuisine. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating this sumptuous meal that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 2 heads of tuna fish (tongkol), cut in half

For Marinating:

• Juice from calamansi or lime

For Cooking:

• Cooking oil (to taste)
• Seasoning to taste
• 300 ml water

Spice Mixture:

• 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
• 5 kaffir lime leaves
• Thinly Sliced:
  • 5 shallots
  • 2 stalks of green onions
• Ground:
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 3 red chili peppers
  • 7 bird’s eye chili peppers
  • 5 candlenuts
  • 2 inches of ginger
  • 2 inches of turmeric

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by marinating the tuna heads with calamansi or lime juice, allowing them to rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté until they become soft and translucent.

3. Add the Spice Mixture: Introduce the ground spice mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously until it becomes fragrant and partially cooked. Follow this by adding the bruised lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and sliced green onions, cooking until they are slightly wilted.

4. Incorporate the Fish: Carefully add the marinated tuna heads to the skillet, gently stirring them with the spices for about one minute. Pour in the water, giving it a brief stir, then cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to come to a boil.

5. Simmer: After the water reaches a boil, taste the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Cover the skillet again and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes to ensure the fish is thoroughly cooked and infused with the spices.

6. Serve: Once cooked, your Woku Kepala Tongkol is ready to be served! Plate it up and enjoy the delicious flavors with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Cooking Notes

• Heat Level: It’s recommended to cook the fish over medium heat to allow the flavors to meld perfectly without burning the spices.

This Woku Kepala Tongkol recipe not only brings a delightful burst of flavors but also offers a unique insight into Indonesian culinary traditions. Enjoy preparing this dish, and let it transport you to the heart of Indonesia with every bite!