Kering Tempe: A Savory Indonesian Delight
Kering Tempe, a traditional Indonesian dish, is a delightful combination of fried tempeh, aromatic spices, and savory seasonings that brings an explosion of flavor to your palate. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it a popular choice among vegetarians and health-conscious individuals. Below is a detailed recipe that will guide you through the preparation of this beloved dish, ensuring that each bite is packed with deliciousness.
Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients needed to create Kering Tempe, complete with measurements to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 large piece, cut into matchsticks |
| Spice Paste | |
| – Garlic | 4 cloves |
| – Shallots | 4 cloves |
| – Large red chilies | 3 pieces |
| – Bird’s eye chilies | 5 pieces |
| Complements | |
| – Kaffir lime leaves | 3 leaves |
| – Brown sugar | 1 piece (to taste) |
| – Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| – Powdered broth | to taste |
| – Ground pepper | to taste |
| – Salt | to taste |
| – Sweet soy sauce | 3 tablespoons (to taste) |
| – Water | as needed |
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Kering Tempe that is sure to impress your family and friends.
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Fry the Tempeh: Begin by heating oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the matchstick-cut tempeh and fry until golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove it from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, shallots, large red chilies, and bird’s eye chilies. Blend them into a smooth paste. If needed, add a splash of water to help with blending.
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Sauté the Spices: In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté for about 3-5 minutes or until fragrant.
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Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in a small amount of water along with the sweet soy sauce and grated brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
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Incorporate Aromatics: Add the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, powdered broth, salt, and ground pepper to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all flavors are well integrated.
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Combine with Tempeh: Once the sauce is bubbling, gently add the fried tempeh into the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure the tempeh is well-coated with the flavorful sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tempeh to absorb the spices.
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Taste and Adjust: Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You may add more salt, sugar, or soy sauce according to your preference.
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Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy your delicious Kering Tempe with steamed rice or as a side dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content for a serving of Kering Tempe. Keep in mind that the values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Kering Tempe is not only a nutritious addition to any meal but also a celebration of Indonesian culinary traditions, showcasing the rich flavors and textures that tempeh has to offer. Enjoy this dish and share it with loved ones, creating cherished memories around the dining table!
