Crispy Tempe Fritters (Perkedel Tempe) – Indonesian Savory Snack Recipe

Perkedel Tempe (Mendhol) Recipe: Savory Tempe Fritters

This traditional Indonesian dish, known as Perkedel Tempe or Mendhol, offers a delicious, crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. It is a savory snack that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and can be a wonderful side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tempe:

   • Start by steaming or boiling the tempe for 10 minutes until soft. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
   • Once cooled, crumble the tempe into a fine texture using a fork or your hands.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a food processor or mortar and pestle, grind the garlic, shallots, bird’s eye chilies, galangal, candlenuts, and kaffir lime leaves until smooth. Add salt and sugar to taste. The paste should be fragrant and flavorful.

3. Mix the Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled tempe with the spice paste.
   • Add the cornstarch, which acts as a binder to ensure the fritters hold together while frying. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.

4. Shape the Fritters:

   • Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into small, compact balls or patties. It’s important to press them firmly so they don’t fall apart during frying. The size of the fritters is up to your preference, but making them about the size of a golf ball works well.

5. Fry the Fritters:

   • Heat enough oil in a frying pan over medium heat to submerge the fritters partially.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tempe fritters to the oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Avoid turning them frequently to ensure even cooking and crisping.
   • Once done, remove the fritters from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

6. Serve:

   • Serve your Perkedel Tempe (Mendhol) while still warm, paired with a bowl of steaming white rice or as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Perkedel Tempe

• Tempe Texture: Ensure the tempe is steamed or boiled long enough to make it soft but not mushy. This helps in making the fritters easier to form and fry.
• Oil Temperature: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry a few fritters at a time to maintain the oil temperature and avoid soggy fritters.
• Crispy Finish: For extra crispiness, make sure the fritters are compact and the oil is hot enough before frying. This helps in getting a golden and crunchy exterior.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Enjoy these Perkedel Tempe fritters as a delightful snack or side dish, perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal at any time of day!