Pepes Ayam Fillet Tahu: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Pepes Ayam Fillet Tahu, a traditional Indonesian dish that combines tender chicken fillet with crushed tofu, all enveloped in fragrant banana leaves. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a delightful way to introduce your guests to the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s perfect for both special occasions and a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
| Main Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken fillet (dada ayam) | 1/2 kg |
| Firm tofu (tahu kuning) | 5 pieces (mashed) |
| Banana leaves (daun pisang) | Sufficient for wrapping |
| Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus) | |
|---|---|
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 8 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 6 cloves |
| Roasted candlenuts (kemiri) | 3 pieces |
| Ginger (jahe) | 1 medium piece |
| Turmeric (kunyit) | 1 small piece |
| Additional Ingredients | |
|---|---|
| Lemongrass (serai) | Sufficient, cut into 2 cm pieces |
| Galangal (lengkuas) | Sufficient |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | Sufficient |
| Tomatoes | Sufficient |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | Sufficient |
| Thai basil (kemangi) | Sufficient |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Protein | ~30g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10g |
| Fat | ~12g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by grinding the shallots, garlic, roasted candlenuts, ginger, and turmeric into a smooth paste. This mixture will be the base of the dish, infusing it with delightful flavors. Once ground, set the spice paste aside.
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, take the chicken fillet, which should be cut into bite-sized pieces, and add the mashed tofu along with the prepared spice paste. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the chicken and tofu are well coated with the spices. Season the mixture with salt to taste. To enhance the flavor further, incorporate the chopped tomatoes, lemongrass pieces, and fresh Thai basil.
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Wrap in Banana Leaves: Take a piece of banana leaf, and place a generous amount of the chicken and tofu mixture in the center. Top it with a bay leaf, a few pieces of bird’s eye chilies for an extra kick, and a slice of galangal. Carefully fold the banana leaf to encase the filling, securing it tightly to prevent any steam from escaping.
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Steam the Pepes: Prepare a steamer and bring water to a boil. Once boiling, place the wrapped packets into the steamer. Steam for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook thoroughly.
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Serve and Enjoy: After steaming, carefully unwrap the banana leaves, revealing the aromatic Pepes Ayam Fillet Tahu. Serve hot, either as a main dish or as part of a larger Indonesian feast. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as part of a shared platter with other Indonesian specialties.
Tips for Success
- Banana Leaves: If banana leaves are difficult to find, you can substitute with parchment paper, though the flavor will not be quite the same.
- Adjusting Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the number of bird’s eye chilies according to your spice tolerance.
- Make Ahead: The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for gatherings.
Enjoy the enticing aroma and flavors of Pepes Ayam Fillet Tahu, and bring a taste of Indonesia to your dining table! This dish not only showcases the culinary traditions of Indonesia but also highlights the vibrant use of fresh herbs and spices, making every bite a delightful experience.
