Tongkol Pandan Jeruk: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Ingredients

To create this vibrant dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 250 grams of tongkol fish, cut into pieces
• 100 grams of curly red chilies (adjust to taste)
• 8 small red bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 5 shallots, finely sliced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 5 young kaffir lime leaves, veins removed and thinly sliced
• 3 young pandan leaves, veins removed and thinly sliced
• 1 scallion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon tamarind water
• ½ tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Flavor enhancer, to taste
• Cooking oil, for frying

Preparation Steps

1. Fry the Fish: Begin by frying the tongkol fish pieces until they are cooked and slightly dry, but avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming too tough. Once done, remove from the oil and shred the fish into bite-sized pieces, setting them aside.

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2. Make the Spice Paste: In a blender, combine the curly red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, tomato, and a splash of cooking oil. Blend until you achieve a coarse texture; avoid making it too smooth.

3. Sauté the Paste: In a pan over low heat, sauté the blended mixture until it becomes fragrant and well-cooked. Once the paste is ready, add the tamarind water, brown sugar, and salt, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

4. Combine Ingredients: After achieving the desired flavor, introduce the sliced pandan leaves, kaffir lime leaves, shredded tongkol fish, and chopped scallions into the pan. Sprinkle in a little flavor enhancer to elevate the dish, ensuring everything is well mixed.

5. Final Cooking: Cook the mixture for a few more minutes until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and heated through.

6. Serve: Once everything is perfectly blended and aromatic, remove from heat and serve your Tongkol Pandan Jeruk hot, accompanied by steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.

Enjoy the Burst of Flavors

This dish not only showcases the richness of Indonesian flavors but also brings together the delightful fragrance of pandan and the zesty notes of kaffir lime. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, Tongkol Pandan Jeruk is sure to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!