Dairy-Free Pepes Tongkol (Indonesian Spiced Tuna Steamed in Banana Leaves)

Delight in the bold flavors of Indonesia with this Dairy-Free Pepes Tongkol, a traditional dish that wraps tender chunks of fresh tuna in fragrant banana leaves and steams them to perfection. Infused with an aromatic spice paste made from shallots, garlic, red chilies, candlenuts, and turmeric, this recipe captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine. The addition of kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and fresh basil creates a symphony of citrusy, herbal notes, while the banana leaf parcels lock in the flavors and aromas during steaming. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness and saltiness, this healthy, dairy-free dish is ideal for a light yet satisfying meal. Serve these neatly wrapped bundles with steamed jasmine rice for an authentic culinary experience that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Fresh tuna
• 4 sheets Banana leaves
• 6 pieces Shallots
• 4 pieces Garlic cloves
• 4 pieces Red chilies
• 3 pieces Candlenuts
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
• 3 leaves Kaffir lime leaves
• 1 stalk Lemongrass
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Cooking oil
• 20 leaves Basil leaves
• 2 stalks Green onions
• 8 pieces Toothpicks

Directions

Step 1

Cut the fresh tuna into small chunks, about 3 cm in size. Set aside.

Step 2

Rinse the banana leaves under running water, then wipe them dry. Pass the leaves over an open flame for a few seconds to make them pliable.

Step 3

In a food processor, blend shallots, garlic, red chilies, candlenuts, turmeric powder, and coriander powder into a smooth paste.

Step 4

Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan, and sauté the spice paste for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Add salt and sugar, stirring to combine.

Step 5

Slice the lemongrass stalk in half lengthwise and bruise it slightly. Add it to the sautéed spice mixture along with the kaffir lime leaves and mix well.

Step 6

Turn off the heat and let the spice mixture cool slightly. Add the tuna chunks, basil leaves, and sliced green onions into the spice mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated.

Step 7

Take a banana leaf sheet and place a portion of the tuna mixture in the center. Fold the banana leaf over the tuna, then tuck the sides in to form a secure parcel. Fasten with toothpicks.

Step 8

Repeat for the remaining banana leaves and tuna mixture.

Step 9

Place the parcels in a steamer and steam over medium heat for about 30 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and aromatic.

Step 10

Remove the parcels from the steamer and serve warm. Enjoy your dairy-free Pepes Tongkol!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1282.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1343.6

Total Fat 64.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 190mg	0%
Sodium 2595.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 63.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.3g	0%
Total Sugars 20.5g
Protein 126.2g	0%

Vitamin D 1135IU	0%
Calcium 255.2mg	0%
Iron 16.4mg	0%
Potassium 4138.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.5%

Protein: 37.6%

Carbs: 19.0%