Pepes Tuna Kemangi: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Ingredients
For the Tuna:
- 1/2 kg tuna, cut into small pieces
For the Spice Mixture:
- 7 shallots
- 5 cloves garlic
- 2 candlenuts
- 3 large chilies
- 2 small chilies (add more if you like it spicy)
- 1 tomato
- 1 piece of ginger
- 2 pieces of turmeric
- 1 tsp grilled shrimp paste
- Salt to taste
For Garnishing:
- Kemangi (Thai basil)
- Bay leaves
- Banana leaves (for wrapping)
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Spice Mixture: Start by blending all the spices—shallots, garlic, candlenuts, chilies, tomato, ginger, turmeric, and grilled shrimp paste—into a smooth paste. This fragrant mixture is the heart of your dish.
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the blended spice mixture with the tuna pieces, adding a generous amount of kemangi and bay leaves. Ensure the tuna is well-coated with the spices for optimal flavor.
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Wrap in Banana Leaves: Take a few pieces of banana leaves and place a portion of the tuna mixture in the center. Fold the leaves to create a neat parcel, securing the contents inside. This not only imparts a subtle flavor but also keeps the tuna moist while cooking.
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Steam the Parcels: Place the wrapped tuna parcels in a steamer and cook until fully cooked through. This usually takes about 30 minutes, depending on your steamer.
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Grill for Extra Flavor: After steaming, remove the parcels and place them on a grill. Grill for approximately 10 minutes to add a delightful smoky flavor and slightly charred texture to the tuna.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once grilled, let the parcels cool for a few minutes. Carefully unwrap them and serve with steaming hot rice for a truly satisfying meal.
Enjoy Your Pepes Tuna Kemangi!
This delightful dish brings together the rich flavors of Indonesia, making it a perfect addition to any meal. The combination of spices, fresh herbs, and tender tuna is sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy your meal! 😊😄
