Tempe Mendowan: A Delightful Tempeh Snack
Tempe mendowan is a delightful and savory Indonesian snack that features crispy, golden-brown tempeh, beautifully seasoned and coated in a flavorful batter. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. The combination of spices and the crunchiness of the fried tempeh make it an irresistible treat for all ages. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe to create this culinary gem, including ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
| Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Tempeh | 1 large board |
| Batter Ingredients | All-purpose flour (measured heaping) | 7-9 tablespoons |
| Whole coriander seeds | 3 teaspoons | |
| Garlic cloves | 3 small cloves | |
| Turmeric | 2 segments (about 2 inches) | |
| Salt | A pinch | |
| Powdered broth (seasoning) | 7 teaspoons | |
| Chopped green onions | To taste | |
| Chopped celery | To taste | |
| Other Ingredients | Cold water | As needed |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by slicing the tempeh into thin pieces using a sharp knife. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even frying.
-
-
Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, whole coriander seeds, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind these ingredients together until they form a smooth paste.
-
Combine Ingredients: Add the heaping all-purpose flour, powdered broth, chopped celery, and chopped green onions into the bowl with the spice paste. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
-
Adjust Consistency: Gradually add cold water to the mixture, stirring continuously. Aim for a batter consistency that is neither too runny nor too thick. The batter should easily coat the back of a spoon without dripping excessively.
-
Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying, but not smoking.
-
Fry the Tempeh: Dip each slice of tempeh into the batter, ensuring it is well coated. Carefully place the coated tempeh along the edge of the frying pan rather than dropping it directly into the oil. This method allows the tempeh to slide down into the oil gently, ensuring a perfect fry.
-
Fry to Perfection: Fry the tempeh until it turns a beautiful golden brown. This should take about 3-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of your slices.
-
Drain and Serve: Once golden and crispy, remove the tempeh from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve the tempeh mendowan warm, accompanied by sambal kecap (a spicy soy sauce) for dipping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Enjoy Your Tempe Mendowan!
Tempe mendowan is not just a delicious treat; it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your meal repertoire. The crispy exterior, combined with the rich flavors of garlic and spices, creates an unforgettable snacking experience. Whether enjoyed as a stand-alone snack or paired with a meal, tempe mendowan is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests! Serve it warm for the best flavor, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite spicy dipping sauce. Enjoy!
