Orek Tempe: A Delightful Indonesian Stir-Fry
Orek Tempe is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases tempeh, a fermented soybean product that is not only rich in protein but also packed with flavor. This recipe brings together a medley of aromatic spices and ingredients that elevate the humble tempeh into a savory delight perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking to explore Indonesian cuisine or simply want to enjoy a nutritious dish, this Orek Tempe is a fantastic choice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (cut lengthwise) | 2 boards (papan) |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 25 ml |
| Salt (garam) | ½ teaspoon |
| Chopped Seasoning | |
| Red chili (cabe merah kriting) | 3 pieces |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Tomato (tomat) | 1 piece |
| Kaffir lime leaf (daun jeruk) | 1 leaf (torn, remove stem) |
| Ginger (jahe) | 1 thumb-sized piece (smashed) |
| Galangal (lengkuas) | 1 thumb-sized piece (smashed) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Start by frying the lengthwise-cut tempeh in hot oil until it is crispy and golden brown. This process enhances the texture and flavor of the tempeh, providing a delightful crunch in every bite. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, use the oil remaining from frying the tempeh. Add the chopped shallots, garlic, and red chili. Sauté until the mixture becomes fragrant and the shallots become translucent. This step is crucial as it releases the essential oils from the spices, creating a rich base for the dish.
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Add Tomato and Seasonings: Once the shallots are translucent, add the chopped tomato and torn kaffir lime leaf. Sauté until the tomato softens and blends well with the other ingredients.
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Season the Mixture: Pour in 25 ml of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and sprinkle in the ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together. At this point, if the mixture seems too thick, you can add a small amount of water to achieve your desired consistency.
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Combine Tempeh and Sauce: Gently add the fried tempeh back into the pan, tossing it with the sautéed aromatics and sauce until the tempeh is well-coated. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes, ensuring that the tempeh absorbs the delicious flavors.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter or saltier flavor, feel free to modify the quantities of soy sauce or salt to suit your palate.
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Serve: Once the flavors are balanced and the tempeh is heated through, turn off the heat. Transfer the Orek Tempe to a serving dish and enjoy it warm with steamed rice or as a side dish alongside other Indonesian favorites.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
This Orek Tempe recipe is not only easy to prepare but also embodies the essence of Indonesian flavors with its combination of spices and tempeh. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether as a main course or a flavorful side. The richness of the sweet soy sauce paired with the earthy taste of tempeh and the freshness of herbs and spices makes for a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering or as part of your daily meals, and relish in the heartwarming flavors of Indonesia!
