Tongkol Bakar Asam Pedas: A Flavorful Grilled Tuna Delight
Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with Tongkol Bakar Asam Pedas, a tantalizing grilled tuna dish that harmoniously balances the rich flavors of the ocean with the spicy and sour notes typical of Indonesian cuisine. This recipe features ikan tongkol (skipjack tuna), which is marinated in a fragrant spice mixture before being grilled to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a delightful main course for a family gathering or a special dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ikan tongkol (young skipjack tuna) | 5 fish |
| Daun salam (Indonesian bay leaves) | To taste |
| Serai (lemongrass), crushed | 1 stalk |
| Asam kandis (sour tamarind) | 3 pieces |
| Gula (sugar) | To taste |
| Garam (salt) | To taste |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Spice Paste | |
| Cabe merah (red chilies) | 10 pieces |
| Bawang merah (red onions) | 6 pieces |
| Bawang putih (garlic) | 3 cloves |
| Lengkuas (galangal), sliced | 2 pieces |
| Kemiri (candlenuts), roasted | 4 pieces |
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Paste:
Start by blending the cabe merah, bawang merah, bawang putih, and kemiri until you achieve a smooth paste. You can use a mortar and pestle for an authentic texture, or a food processor for convenience. -
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste along with the crushed serai and daun salam. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes. -
Season the Mixture:
Once the spices are aromatic, add the asam kandis, garam, and gula to the pan. Pour in the water and stir well to combine all the flavors. Allow the mixture to cook until it thickens and the spices are well-cooked, about 10 minutes. -
Marinate the Fish:
Remove the skillet from heat and add the ikan tongkol to the pan. Gently toss the fish in the spice mixture to ensure it is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to seep into the fish. -
Grill the Fish:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated fish on the grill. Grill the fish for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside. -
Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fish from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. This dish is best enjoyed hot, accompanied by steamed rice and your favorite vegetable side dishes.
Tips for Perfecting Your Tongkol Bakar Asam Pedas
- Choosing the Right Fish: Fresh ikan tongkol will yield the best flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with other firm-fleshed fish like mackerel.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the number of cabe merah based on your heat preference. You can also add a few cabe rawit (bird’s eye chilies) for extra spice.
- Cooking Method: If grilling is not an option, you can also bake the marinated fish in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, basting with the marinade halfway through for added moisture.
Conclusion
Tongkol Bakar Asam Pedas is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant expression of Indonesian culinary traditions. The interplay of spices, the slight tang from the tamarind, and the smoky flavor from grilling create a dish that is both satisfying and memorable. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe will surely bring joy and warmth to your dining table. Enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing this exquisite grilled tuna dish with loved ones!
