Asam Padeh Tongkol: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Dive into the rich, tangy flavors of Asam Padeh Tongkol, a beloved Indonesian dish that beautifully showcases the tender, flaky texture of tuna (ikan tongkol) paired with a vibrant array of spices and fresh ingredients. This recipe, inspired by Talicious, is perfect for those who appreciate authentic home cooking, bringing warmth and zest to your dining table.

Ingredients

To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 500 grams of fresh tuna (ikan tongkol)
• 2 large potatoes, cut into sizable chunks
• 300 grams of red chili peppers (cabe merah)
• 10 small bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit)
• 1 large tomato
• 5 shallots (bawang merah)
• 3 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
• 2 thumb-sized pieces of turmeric (kunyit)
• 2 thumb-sized pieces of ginger (jahe)
• 3 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 2 stalks of lemongrass (serai)
• 2 thumb-sized pieces of galangal (lengkuas)
• 4 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk), finely sliced for enhanced aroma
• 3 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 2 star anise (kembang lawang)
• 2 pieces of tamarind (asam kandis)
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• Oil for sautéing
• 450 ml of water (add more if you prefer a soupier consistency)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by blending or grinding all the ingredients (except for lemongrass, bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal) into a smooth paste. This rich mixture will form the aromatic base of your dish.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, pour in a suitable amount of oil and heat over medium flame. Add the blended spice paste along with the lemongrass, galangal, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Sauté until the mixture becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with enticing aromas.

3. Add Potatoes and Water: Once the spices have released their fragrance, pour in the water and sprinkle in the salt. Add the potato chunks, allowing them to cook until tender. This step ensures that the potatoes absorb the vibrant flavors of the broth.

4. Incorporate the Tuna: When the potatoes are soft, gently add the tuna to the pot. It’s essential to add the fish at this stage, as it is delicate and cooks quickly. Simmer until the tuna is cooked through and the broth thickens beautifully.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the fish is fully cooked and the flavors have melded, your Asam Padeh Tongkol is ready to be served warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making it a delightful meal that your family and friends will love.

Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure!

This Asam Padeh Tongkol recipe not only highlights the harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients but also invites you to experience the joy of cooking traditional Indonesian cuisine. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delightful flavors that await you! 😊🙏🏻😇