Indonesian Steamed Tofu with Basil and Spices (Pepes Tahu Putih)

Pepes Tahu Putih: Indonesian Steamed Tofu with Herbs

Pepes Tahu Putih is a delightful Indonesian dish featuring tofu seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection. This recipe is an excellent choice for a flavorful, plant-based meal. Here’s a detailed guide to creating this savory dish.

Ingredients

• 1 large block of white tofu
• 1 bunch of basil leaves (daun kemangi)
• Banana leaves for wrapping
• 3 shallots (bawang merah)
• 3 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
• 2 red chilies (cabe merah)
• 4 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds (ketumbar)
• 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric (kunyit)
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper (lada bubuk)
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 2 stalks of lemongrass (daun sereh), cut into 4 cm pieces
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu:

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   • Begin by mashing the tofu until it is smooth and free of lumps. You can use a fork or a food processor for this step.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the shallots, garlic, red chilies, candlenuts, coriander seeds, turmeric, and salt into a fine paste. This can be done using a mortar and pestle or a blender.

3. Prepare the Herbs:

   • Wash the basil leaves, bay leaves, and lemongrass thoroughly. Cut the lemongrass into 4 cm pieces.

4. Mix Tofu and Spices:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed tofu with the spice paste. Add the basil leaves to the mixture and mix well.

5. Wrap the Pepes:

   • Clean and prepare the banana leaves by briefly heating them over a flame to make them pliable. Place one bay leaf in the center of each banana leaf.
   • Spoon a portion of the tofu mixture onto the bay leaf. Add a few slices of red chili, some basil leaves, and pieces of lemongrass on top of the tofu mixture.
   • Fold the banana leaf around the tofu mixture to create a secure packet. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

6. Steam the Pepes:

   • Arrange the banana leaf packets in a steamer. Steam over boiling water for about 30 minutes, or until the banana leaves become wilted and the tofu is cooked through.

7. Serve:

   • Remove the packets from the steamer and let them cool slightly. Unwrap the banana leaves and serve the Pepes Tahu Putih warm.

Enjoy this fragrant and savory Indonesian dish, perfect for a delicious and wholesome meal.