Tempe Mendoan with a Modern Twist
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (fried) | 4 pieces |
| Red bird’s eye chilies | 3 pieces |
| Large red chilies | 3 pieces |
| Green bird’s eye chilies | 3 pieces |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Spring onions (sliced) | As needed |
| Chicken stock powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Seasoned flour | As needed |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the spice mixture:
Begin by grinding the garlic, shallots, and all the chilies (both red and green). For a smoother texture, you can blanch the chilies and garlic in hot water for a few minutes before blending them. This helps soften the chilies and garlic, making them easier to grind. -
Sauté the spice paste:
Heat a small amount of oil in a pan. Add the blended spice mixture and sauté with the chicken stock powder until fragrant but not fully cooked. This is the filling for the tempe. Once the spices are cooked, set them aside. -
Slice the tempe for stuffing:
Take each piece of tempe and carefully slice it open, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. You just need enough space to add the spice filling inside. -
Stuff the tempe:
Fill each tempe pocket with the sautéed spice mixture, spreading it evenly inside. -
Prepare the batter:
In a bowl, mix the seasoned flour with water to create a batter similar to the one used for mendoan. It should have a medium consistency – not too thick and not too runny. Stir in the sliced spring onions for extra flavor. -
Fry the stuffed tempe:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a pan. Make sure the oil is deep enough so that the tempe can be fully submerged for frying. Once the oil is hot, dip each stuffed tempe into the batter and carefully place it into the oil. Fry the tempe until it turns a light golden color, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking. -
Serve:
Remove the fried tempe mendoan from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot, and enjoy the crispy outside with the flavorful spiced filling inside!
This modern take on Tempe Mendoan combines the traditional dish with a zesty, spicy filling that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. It’s perfect as a snack or side dish and will surely impress anyone who loves bold and savory tastes!
