Spicy Tempe and Petai Stir-Fry with Tamarind Glaze

Tempe and Petai Stir-Fry: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and a touch of spice, the Tempe and Petai Stir-Fry recipe is one you need to try. This dish combines crispy fried tempe with the unique, earthy taste of petai (stinky beans) and a fragrant blend of aromatic spices. The rich flavors of garlic, red chilies, and a tangy touch of tamarind make this dish truly irresistible. Perfect for those who love to experiment with distinctive ingredients, this stir-fry will leave you coming back for more!

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tempe:

   • Thinly slice the tempe lengthwise into strips, ensuring the pieces are even in thickness.
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, then fry the tempe slices until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to let them burn. Once crispy, set aside to drain excess oil.

2. Blend the Aromatics:

   • In a blender or mortar and pestle, grind the garlic, shallots, and red chilies into a fine paste. Set aside.
   • Crush the galangal, ginger, and lemongrass (if using) into rough pieces, to release their fragrant oils.

3. Toss the Petai:

   • Heat some oil in the same pan, and sauté the sliced green bird’s eye chilies until slightly wilted. Add the crushed galangal, ginger, and lemongrass, along with the bay leaf.
   • Stir-fry for a few moments, allowing the aromas to fill the kitchen.

4. Add the Spice Blend:

   • Add the previously prepared garlic, shallot, and red chili paste to the pan. Sauté over medium heat until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the spices.

5. Flavor the Dish:

   • Season with a dash of brown sugar and soy sauce (Kecap Bangau) to enhance the flavor profile. Stir well, making sure the spices coat the ingredients evenly.

6. Combine the Petai:

   • Add the sliced petai to the pan, followed by the tamarind water. Stir everything together, allowing the petai to soften slightly and absorb the flavors. Cook for a few minutes until the petai becomes tender.

7. Final Mix:

   • Gently toss in the fried tempe pieces and mix everything together, ensuring the tempe is coated in the flavorful sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce or sugar as needed.

8. Serve:

   • Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish, garnish with extra herbs or chilies if desired, and serve hot with steamed rice.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Enjoy this delicious Indonesian-style stir-fry that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s the ideal dish for those who appreciate the bold, unique flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine. The combination of crispy tempe, pungent petai, and aromatic spices will surely make it a hit at your table!