Paleo Pepes Tongkol (Indonesian Spiced Tuna Steamed in Banana Leaves)

Delight your taste buds with Paleo Pepes Tongkol, an Indonesian spiced tuna steamed to perfection in fragrant banana leaf parcels. This dish is a vibrant fusion of bold, traditional flavors and paleo-friendly ingredients, making it a healthy yet indulgent treat. Fresh tuna fillets are coated in an aromatic spice paste of shallots, garlic, red chili, and turmeric, complemented by zesty lime juice and earthy lemongrass. Wrapped in banana leaves with kaffir lime and basil leaves, the parcels are steamed to lock in the delicate, smoky aroma and tender texture. Perfect for those following a gluten-free or paleo diet, this flavorful recipe is best served alongside a crisp salad or cauliflower rice for an authentic Indonesian feast.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams fresh tuna fillet
• 4 sheets banana leaves
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 6 pieces shallots
• 4 pieces garlic cloves
• 2 pieces red chili peppers
• 1 inch ginger
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 stalks lemongrass
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 leaves kaffir lime leaves
• 10 leaves fresh basil leaves

Directions

Step 1

Begin by rinsing the banana leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt, then pat them dry.

Step 2

Carefully slice the tuna fillet into smaller pieces, approximately 4x4 cm.

Step 3

In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, red chili peppers, ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass. Blend until you have a smooth paste.

Step 4

Heat the coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until aromatic, about 4 minutes.

Step 5

Mix in the coriander powder, lime juice, and salt into the sautéed spice mixture. Stir well to incorporate the flavors.

Step 6

Remove the spice mixture from heat. Allow it to cool before mixing it with the tuna pieces, ensuring the tuna is evenly coated.

Step 7

Cut each banana leaf into approximately 25x25 cm squares. Place two kaffir lime leaves on each square, then lay a portion of the spiced tuna on top.

Step 8

Scatter fresh basil leaves over the tuna. Fold the banana leaves tightly around the fish, tucking in the sides to form secure parcels.

Step 9

Secure the parcels using toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Step 10

Steam the parcels in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 20 minutes, until the tuna is cooked through.

Step 11

Once cooked, remove the parcels from the steamer. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Step 12

Unwrap the banana leaf parcels and enjoy your Paleo-friendly Pepes Tongkol, served with a side of fresh salad or cauliflower rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1379.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1246.8

Total Fat 34.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 24.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 250mg	0%
Sodium 2659.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 83.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.9g	0%
Total Sugars 17.1g
Protein 155.1g	0%

Vitamin D 1000IU	0%
Calcium 292.1mg	0%
Iron 23.7mg	0%
Potassium 3963.6mg	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: 24.8%

Protein: 48.9%

Carbs: 26.3%