Oseng Tempe Kecap: A Flavorful Tempeh Stir-Fry
Oseng Tempe Kecap is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully marries the earthy flavor of tempeh with a rich blend of sweet soy sauce, spices, and fresh ingredients. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a nutritious option for those looking to enjoy plant-based meals. Perfect as a side dish or as a main course, it will leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into the delightful details of preparing this delicious stir-fry!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block |
| Tomato | 1/2, diced |
| Cooking oil | To taste |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 4-6 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | To taste |
| Brown sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer | To taste |
| Spice Paste: | |
| Red shallots | 3 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili peppers | 10, to taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Oseng Tempe Kecap:
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Prepare the Tempeh: Start by cutting the tempeh into small cubes. This allows for even cooking and ensures that each piece can soak up the flavors beautifully. Once cut, fry the tempeh in oil until it is lightly golden and half crispy. This step adds texture and enhances the flavor.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Sauté the spice paste made from the red shallots, garlic, and bird’s eye chili until fragrant. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.
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Combine Tempeh and Add Liquid: Once the spices are fragrant, add the fried tempeh back into the pan. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Pour in just enough water to submerge the tempeh slightly—be careful not to exceed the tempeh’s height in the pan. This moisture will help cook the tempeh thoroughly without losing its structure.
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Flavor the Dish: To the pan, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, flavor enhancer, oyster sauce, and sweet soy sauce (kecap manis). These ingredients work in harmony to create a deliciously balanced sauce. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary; you want a nice balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice.
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Incorporate Tomatoes: Once everything is well combined, gently fold in the diced tomatoes. The tomatoes add a fresh touch and a splash of color to the dish. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and thickens, and the tempeh becomes slightly sticky. This process should take about 5-10 minutes.
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Final Touches: When the sauce has thickened and clings to the tempeh, remove the pan from the heat. Your Oseng Tempe Kecap is now ready to be served!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Oseng Tempe Kecap hot, garnished with additional slices of fresh tomato or a sprinkle of green onions if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Oseng Tempe Kecap is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly in your kitchen. Enjoy the richness of tempeh infused with the sweetness of kecap manis and the warmth of spices. Whether you are cooking for a gathering or simply for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite! Happy cooking! 🍽️
