Tumis Tahu Pedas: A Flavorful Stir-Fry for Spice Lovers
Tumis Tahu Pedas is a vibrant Indonesian stir-fry that harmonizes the soft, comforting texture of tofu with an array of fresh vegetables and a blend of spicy, aromatic seasonings. This dish is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to enjoy plant-based ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to a larger meal spread, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large tofu | 2 pieces |
| Bean sprouts (tauge) | 1/4 cup |
| Mushrooms (lember or ear) | 200 grams |
| Green onion (daun bawang) | 1 stalk |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Red chili peppers | 2 pieces |
Spices and Seasonings
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 4 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili (cabe rawit) | 10 pieces |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 2 pieces |
| Cooked shrimp paste (terasi) | To taste |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chicken stock powder | To taste |
| Galangal (lengkuas) | To taste |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 1-2 leaves |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tofu: Begin by cutting the large tofu into bite-sized cubes. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the tofu cubes until they are golden brown on all sides. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
-
Chop the Vegetables: Next, slice the green onion, red chili peppers, and tomato into small pieces. Set aside for later use.
-
Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chili, and candlenuts. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
-
Sauté the Spices: In the same pan used for the tofu, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté the spice paste over medium heat until fragrant. Add the bay leaves and galangal to the mix, allowing their flavors to infuse into the paste.
-
Combine Ingredients: Once the spices are fragrant, add the bean sprouts, mushrooms, and the fried tofu to the pan. Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and chicken stock powder, and pour in a splash of water to create a light sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated in the spice mix.
-
Final Touches: Add the sliced tomato, green onion, and red chili peppers to the pan. Allow the mixture to cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are just tender and the sauce slightly thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste.
-
Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and transfer the Tumis Tahu Pedas to a serving dish. Enjoy it hot, either on its own or as a side dish accompanying steamed rice or other main courses.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Fat | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | Varies |
Conclusion
Tumis Tahu Pedas is a delectable blend of textures and flavors that celebrates the heartiness of tofu while allowing the spices and vegetables to shine. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Enjoy the balance of heat and flavor that this Indonesian classic offers, and share it with friends and family for a memorable dining experience.
