Yellow Coconut Mackerel and Tofu Delight

Ikan Tongkol Tahu Bumbu Kuning

Embark on a flavorful culinary adventure with this delightful Indonesian recipe for Ikan Tongkol Tahu Bumbu Kuning. Featuring succulent fried mackerel and tofu simmered in a rich, aromatic yellow coconut sauce, this dish combines a blend of traditional spices to create a meal that is both comforting and exhilarating. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a true celebration of Indonesian flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of pindang tongkol (fried mackerel)
• 4 pieces of tofu (cut into cubes and fried)
• 1 can of coconut milk (Santan Kara)
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 2 kemiri nuts (candlenuts)
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 5 shallots
  • 10 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit)
  • 1 small piece of turmeric (kunyit)
• 1 stalk of lemongrass (sereh)
• 1 small piece of galangal (laos)
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 1/2 teaspoon of coriander (ketumbar)
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (lada)
• Water, as needed
• Seasonings: Royco seasoning, sugar, and cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the kemiri nuts, garlic, shallots, bird’s eye chilies, and turmeric. Blend until the mixture forms a smooth paste.

2. Cook the Spice Paste: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste, lemongrass, galangal, and bay leaves. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the Royco seasoning and sugar to the spice paste. Mix well to combine and cook for a few more minutes.

4. Incorporate Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and a small amount of water. Stir well to blend the flavors together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Add Fish and Tofu: Carefully add the fried mackerel and tofu to the pan. Simmer the ingredients in the coconut sauce until they are heated through and the flavors have melded together, about 10-15 minutes.

6. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional Royco seasoning, sugar, or salt if needed.

7. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the fish and tofu are well-coated, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy this traditional Indonesian dish that brings together the rich flavors of bumbu kuning with tender pieces of fried fish and tofu, creating a meal that is both satisfying and deeply flavorful.