Kering Tempe Pedas Manis: A Delightful Indonesian Tempe Dish
Introduction
Kering Tempe Pedas Manis, or Spicy Sweet Fried Tempeh, is a quintessential Indonesian dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its unique blend of flavors. The combination of crispy tempeh, spicy chilies, and the sweetness of palm sugar creates a symphony of taste that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect as a side dish or a flavorful snack, this recipe is easy to follow and can be adapted to your spice preference. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Indonesian cuisine with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 1 board (approximately 250g) |
| Peanuts | 1/4 cup (roughly 30g) |
| Tamarind Water | 1 packet (made from tamarind + 1/4 cup water) |
| Palm Sugar | To taste (approximately 1/4 block) |
| Red Chilies | 3 pieces |
| Kaffir Lime Leaves | 3 leaves (thinly sliced) |
| Seasoning (Masako) | To taste |
For the Spice Paste:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Bird’s Eye Chilies | 5 pieces (optional) |
| Galangal | 1 slice (or 1 tsp powder) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Paste:
- In a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chilies (if using), and galangal. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Set aside.
-
Slice the Tempeh:
- While waiting for the spice paste, slice the tempeh into thin pieces, ensuring they are not too thin but of a reasonable thickness.
-
Fry the Tempeh:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the sliced tempeh until it becomes golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
-
Fry the Peanuts:
- In the same skillet, add the raw peanuts and fry until they are golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
-
Sauté the Spice Paste:
- In a clean skillet, add a little oil and sauté the prepared spice paste over medium heat until it becomes fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the palm sugar and tamarind water to the skillet, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and all ingredients are well combined.
-
Add the Tempeh and Peanuts:
- Add the fried tempeh and peanuts into the skillet, along with the sliced red chilies and kaffir lime leaves.
-
Season:
- Sprinkle in the seasoning (Masako) according to your taste preferences. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are coated in the flavorful sauce.
-
Simmer:
- Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld together and the tempeh absorbs the sauce.
-
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add more palm sugar.
-
Serve:
- Once everything is cooked through and well-combined, transfer your Kering Tempe Pedas Manis to a serving dish. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a snack!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fats | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Final Thoughts
Kering Tempe Pedas Manis is a fantastic introduction to Indonesian cuisine, offering a delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that will captivate your palate. Whether served alongside rice, as a part of a larger meal, or enjoyed as a snack, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Indonesia right at home!
