Rolled Tofu with Cassava Leaves (Tahu Gulung)
Delve into the wholesome flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delicious and healthy rolled tofu recipe. Packed with the natural goodness of tofu and leafy greens, this dish makes an ideal appetizer or snack. It’s a beautiful blend of soft tofu and tender cassava leaves, rolled and steamed in banana leaves to give it a unique flavor. If cassava leaves aren’t available, spinach makes a great substitute. Let’s get rolling!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White tofu | 4 blocks |
| Cassava leaves | 1 bunch |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Shallots | 2 cloves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Egg | 1 large |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Large red chilies | 2 chilies, sliced thin |
| Banana leaf (for wrapping) | 1 sheet, cleaned |
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Sugar | 1g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cassava Leaves:
Begin by boiling the cassava leaves until they are fully tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the excess water and set them aside. -
Steam Setup:
In the meantime, prepare a steamer by heating the water in the base until it’s ready to steam the rolls later. -
Mash the Tofu & Make the Spice Paste:
Crush the tofu blocks in a large bowl until smooth and free of large lumps. Using a mortar and pestle or a blender, create a smooth spice paste by grinding the garlic, shallots, salt, and sugar together. -
Mix the Ingredients:
Combine the mashed tofu with the spice paste, sliced red chilies, egg, and flour. Mix everything until well incorporated. The mixture should be thick enough to spread but still soft. -
Prepare the Banana Leaves:
Clean and lightly warm the banana leaf over an open flame or hot surface to make it more pliable for rolling. Place the leaf flat on your workspace. -
Layer the Cassava Leaves & Tofu Mixture:
Lay the cassava leaves over the banana leaf, ensuring they are evenly spread out. The length and width should match the amount of tofu mixture you are using. -
Spread the Tofu Mixture:
Gently spoon the tofu mixture on top of the cassava leaves and spread it out evenly, creating a smooth layer over the greens. -
Roll & Wrap:
Carefully roll the cassava leaves and tofu mixture together, just like you would roll sushi. Ensure that the tofu is tightly packed within the roll. Once rolled, wrap it securely with the banana leaf to hold its shape. -
Steam the Rolls:
Place the wrapped tofu rolls in the steamer and steam them for about 15 minutes. This allows the tofu to firm up and the flavors to meld together beautifully. -
Cool & Slice:
Once the rolls are fully cooked, allow them to cool before unwrapping the banana leaf. This helps them hold their shape better. After cooling, unwrap the banana leaf and slice the tofu rolls into bite-sized pieces.
Notes:
- Cassava Leaves Alternative: If cassava leaves are unavailable, spinach makes an excellent substitute. It offers a similar texture and flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: These tofu rolls pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce, such as a simple sweet soy or sambal sauce, to elevate the flavors even more.
Rolled tofu, or Tahu Gulung, is a testament to the ingenuity and deliciousness of Indonesian home cooking. It’s perfect for gatherings or a light snack, offering a nutrient-rich and flavorful experience. The combination of tender tofu, aromatic spices, and fresh greens makes it both satisfying and healthy!
