Deliciously Spiced Bacem Tahu Tempe: A Sweet and Savory Indonesian Delight

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing all the ingredients thoroughly.
Boil Water: In a large pan, add enough water and bring it to a boil.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar, pound together the shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, and salt until finely ground. Crush the galangal and lemongrass lightly. Add the bay leaves to the mix.
Combine with Water: Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the spice mixture and stir well.
Add Palm Sugar: Incorporate the palm sugar, stirring until it dissolves.
Prepare Tahu: Rinse the tofu and place it in the boiling mixture.
Cut the Tempe: Slice the tempe according to your preference.
Incorporate Tempe: Add the sliced tempe to the pot and stir gently to mix.
Add Granulated Sugar: Sprinkle in the granulated sugar for additional sweetness.
Add Sweet Soy Sauce: Pour in the sweet soy sauce, stirring until evenly distributed.
Simmer: Cover the pot and let it simmer until the liquid reduces, about 20-30 minutes. Note that the ingredients will appear pale at this stage, but they will darken upon frying.
Fry the Bacem: Heat another pan with a generous amount of oil. Fry the bacem until it achieves a rich, dark brown color.
Serve: Once fried to perfection, remove from oil and drain. Serve immediately alongside your favorite dishes. For a delightful pairing, try it with stir-fried bitter melon and anchovies for a sweet and savory balance. Enjoy your delicious Bacem Tahu Tempe!

Enjoy this ultimate comfort food that highlights the delightful flavors of Indonesian cuisine!