Irresistible Tempeh and Tofu Bacem: Sweet and Savory Indonesian Delight
Tempe Tahu Bacem: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Tempe Tahu Bacem is a beloved Indonesian dish that perfectly balances the earthy flavors of tempeh and tofu with a rich, sweet-spicy marinade. This recipe, combining the unique texture of tempeh and the creaminess of tofu, makes for a delicious and hearty meal. It’s not just tasty; it also offers a delightful exploration of Indonesian culinary traditions. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Tempe Tahu Bacem!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 package (approximately 150g) |
| Tofu | 1 package (contains 4 pieces) |
| Young coconut | 1 fruit (water only) |
| Brown sugar | 80g (finely grated) |
| Jati leaves | 1 small leaf (torn into pieces) |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk (crushed) |
| Ginger | 2 cm (crushed) |
| Galangal | 3 cm (crushed) |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Tamarind | 40g |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
| Ground white pepper | ½ tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Seasoning powder | 1 tsp (e.g., Masako) |
| Sweet soy sauce | 4 tbsp |
Spice Paste
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Coriander seeds | 1 tsp |
| Candlenuts | 1 piece |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by cutting the tempeh and tofu into pieces according to your preference; some prefer cubes while others might like them in thick slices. Set aside the cut pieces for later use.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar, combine shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, and candlenuts. Blend or pound them together until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the spice paste along with the crushed lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, ginger, and galangal. Sauté these ingredients until they release their fragrant aroma, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Create the Marinade: Pour the young coconut water into the pan, stirring gently to combine it with the sautéed spices. Allow this mixture to simmer for a moment before adding the tamarind, grated brown sugar, and jati leaves. Bring the marinade to a boil, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.
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Add the Tempeh and Tofu: Carefully introduce the cut tempeh and tofu into the boiling marinade. Allow them to simmer in this mixture for a few minutes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in the salt, ground white pepper, sweet soy sauce, and seasoning powder. Allow the mixture to simmer gently until the liquid reduces and thickens, coating the tempeh and tofu thoroughly. This process ensures that the flavors are absorbed well, taking approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Cool and Fry: Once the liquid has reduced significantly and the tempeh and tofu appear glossy and flavorful, remove them from the heat. Let them cool completely. Once cooled, heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and fry the marinated tempeh and tofu pieces until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Tempe Tahu Bacem warm, either on its own or as a side dish. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fresh vegetables, or as part of a larger Indonesian feast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Tempe Tahu Bacem is not only a delicious dish but also a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it an excellent addition to any meal. This delightful recipe showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine and is sure to impress both family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary journey with this exquisite dish, and let the flavors of Tempe Tahu Bacem transport you to the vibrant streets of Indonesia!
