Sambal Ulek Tempe: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for Students
Sambal Ulek Tempe is a beloved Indonesian dish that combines the rich flavors of tempeh with a spicy sambal, making it perfect for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is particularly great for students or those on a budget, as it is not only easy to prepare but also requires minimal ingredients. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish that can brighten any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block |
| Shallots | 2 pieces |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Red chilies | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (optional) | 2 pieces (to taste) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by frying the tempeh in a pan with hot oil until it turns golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the pan and let it drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
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Fry the Aromatics: In the same oil, fry the shallots, garlic, red chilies, and tomato until they become soft and fragrant. This process will enhance the flavors of your sambal. Aim for about 3-4 minutes of frying, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
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Make the Sambal: After frying the ingredients, transfer them to a mortar and pestle (or a food processor) and grind them together until you achieve a coarse paste. Add salt and sugar according to your taste preferences. It’s important to taste the mixture at this stage to ensure the balance of flavors is to your liking.
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Combine with Tempeh: Once the sambal is at your desired taste, add the fried tempeh to the sambal mixture. Use the pestle to gently crush and mix the tempeh with the sambal, taking care not to break it down completely. You want some chunks to remain for texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your Sambal Ulek Tempe is now ready! Serve it warm with steamed rice, and enjoy a hearty meal that is not only delicious but also budget-friendly.
Cooking Tips
- Feel free to adjust the number of chilies based on your heat preference. Adding more bird’s eye chilies will certainly kick up the spice level!
- This dish is versatile; you can pair it with various side dishes like fried eggs, tofu, or vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
Sambal Ulek Tempe is an ideal dish for anyone seeking a quick yet flavorful meal. Its simplicity and accessibility make it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire, especially for students and busy individuals. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Enjoy this delightful sambal with your favorite sides and savor the taste of Indonesia right at your home!
