Cakalang Pelangi: A Flavorful Delight
Cakalang Pelangi, a vibrant Indonesian dish that celebrates the rich flavors of skipjack tuna, or ikan cakalang, is a feast for the senses. This dish features tender, flaked fish, complemented by a medley of aromatic spices and chilies, resulting in a savory and slightly spicy experience that is perfect for sharing. Here’s how to prepare this delightful meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Skipjack tuna (ikan cakalang) | As needed (for your serving) |
Garlic (bawang putih) | 2 cloves, finely chopped |
Shallots (bawang merah) | 3 cloves, finely chopped |
Tomato (tomat) | 1 medium, chopped |
Large green chilies (cabe ijo besar) | 10 pieces, sliced |
Curly red chilies (cabe merah kriting) | 2 pieces, sliced |
Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 5 pieces, sliced |
Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | 2 leaves, shredded |
Bay leaf (daun salam) | 1 leaf |
Oyster sauce (saos tiram) | To taste |
Salt (garam) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | Approximately 320 |
Protein | Approximately 30g |
Total Fat | Approximately 20g |
Carbohydrates | Approximately 10g |
Fiber | Approximately 2g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by shredding or cutting the skipjack tuna into bite-sized pieces according to your preference. Before you start cooking, steam the fish until it is just cooked through. This ensures that the fish retains its moisture and flavor during the frying process.
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Fry the Fish: In a frying pan over medium heat, add a little oil and fry the steamed fish until it is half-cooked. This process will give it a lovely texture and flavor. Once fried, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the finely chopped garlic and shallots. Sauté them until they become fragrant and slightly wilted. The aroma of the garlic and shallots will fill your kitchen with a delightful scent that signals the deliciousness to come.
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Add the Chilies and Tomato: Once the garlic and shallots are ready, add the sliced green and red chilies, along with the chopped tomato. Sauté everything together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Incorporate the Fish: Carefully add the fried skipjack tuna to the sautéed mixture, ensuring that the fish is evenly coated with the aromatic spices. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break the fish apart too much.
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Season the Dish: Add the oyster sauce and salt to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, as the balance of flavors is crucial in this dish. The oyster sauce will impart a savory depth that complements the tuna perfectly.
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Finish with Fresh Herbs: Finally, stir in the shredded kaffir lime leaves and the bay leaf. These fresh herbs will elevate the dish, adding a refreshing aroma and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the Cakalang Pelangi from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. This dish is best served hot, accompanied by steamed rice and perhaps a side of fresh vegetables. Enjoy this flavorful creation with family and friends, and relish the explosion of taste in every bite.
Cakalang Pelangi is more than just a dish; it is a celebration of the culinary richness found in Indonesian cuisine. With its colorful presentation and a symphony of flavors, it promises to bring warmth and joy to your dining table. Happy cooking!