Tempe Kecap: A Flavorful Indonesian Dish
Tempe Kecap is a delightful and simple Indonesian dish that highlights the unique flavor of tempeh, a traditional fermented soybean cake. This recipe combines tempeh with a sweet soy sauce glaze, aromatic spices, and the freshness of green beans, making it a perfect companion for steamed rice or as part of a larger meal. Whether you’re familiar with Indonesian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (Tempe Daun) | 1 Papan |
| Green Beans (Buncis) | 5 pieces (optional) |
| Galangal (Lengkoas/Laos) | 1 segment (1-2 inches) |
| Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis) | 4 tablespoons (to taste) |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar | to taste |
| Sliced Spices | |
| Red Chilies (or substitute with large green chilies) | 3 pieces |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 2 cloves |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 1 clove |
Instructions
-
Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté the sliced shallots, garlic, and chilies until fragrant and translucent, releasing their lovely aromas. -
-
Add Water
Pour approximately 250 ml of water into the pan, allowing it to combine with the sautéed spices, creating a flavorful broth. -
Incorporate Tempeh and Green Beans
Cut the tempeh into bite-sized pieces, and if desired, fry it beforehand for added texture. Add the tempeh and cut green beans into the pan, stirring gently to coat them with the broth. -
Season the Dish
Drizzle in the sweet soy sauce, and season with salt, sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the tempeh and green beans are evenly coated with the seasoning. -
Taste and Adjust
Take a moment to taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning to your preference. If everything tastes good, add the galangal and stir to mix thoroughly. -
Cook Until Done
Allow the tempeh to simmer until the water reduces and the flavors intensify, cooking until the dish reaches a slightly thickened consistency. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the tempeh and green beans are cooked through, remove the dish from heat. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Tempe Kecap with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Cooking Tips
- Tempeh Preparation: If you prefer a firmer texture, frying the tempeh before adding it to the dish enhances its flavor and provides a delightful crunch.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables according to your taste and what you have on hand, such as bell peppers or carrots.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of chilies based on your preference for heat. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for a milder flavor.
This Tempe Kecap recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that represent the heart of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress your guests with something unique, this dish will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
