Tahu Bulat: Crispy Indonesian Fried Tofu Balls
Indulge in the delightful crunch and savory flavor of Tahu Bulat, a beloved Indonesian street food that brings together the creaminess of tofu with a perfect blend of spices and aromatics. These crispy tofu balls are not only easy to make but also a fantastic appetizer or snack that pairs well with your favorite dipping sauce. Follow this detailed recipe to create your own delicious Tahu Bulat that will surely impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
Hereโs everything you need to make approximately 4 servings of Tahu Bulat:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White tofu (firm) | 2 boxes (about 400 grams) |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Shallots | 2 cloves |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | To taste |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cooking oil (for frying) | Enough for deep frying |
Nutritional Information
The following table provides an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Instructions
To create the perfect Tahu Bulat, follow these easy steps:
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Prepare the Tofu: Begin by removing the tofu from its packaging and draining any excess liquid. To achieve a smoother texture, mash the tofu until it is completely smooth. If the tofu is still watery, place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out the excess moisture.
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Blend Aromatics: Peel and finely chop the garlic and shallots. Combine these aromatic ingredients into the mashed tofu, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
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Season the Mixture: Add the ground black pepper, salt, baking powder, and your choice of flavor enhancer to the tofu mixture. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
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Incorporate the Egg: Crack the egg into the tofu mixture. This will help bind the ingredients together, so mix until fully integrated.
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Shape the Tofu Balls: With your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball shape. Continue this process until all the mixture is formed into round balls. You can adjust the size according to your preference.
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Chill for Better Texture: For best results, place the shaped tofu balls on a tray and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. This helps the balls hold their shape during frying.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat enough cooking oil over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the tofu mixture into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.
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Fry the Tofu Balls: Carefully add the tofu balls to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
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Drain Excess Oil: Once golden brown, remove the tofu balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your delicious Tahu Bulat is now ready to be served! Enjoy them warm with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce, for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your Tahu Bulat. Adding chopped green onions or chili flakes can elevate the taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve Tahu Bulat as a side dish, appetizer, or even as part of a main meal alongside rice and vegetables.
Conclusion
Tahu Bulat is a delightful dish that showcases the versatility of tofu while being simple and satisfying to make. Whether youโre serving it at a party, family gathering, or simply enjoying a snack at home, these crispy tofu balls are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of creating this beloved Indonesian street food in your own kitchen, and savor every delicious bite!
