Mendol Tempe: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Mendol Tempe is a traditional Indonesian dish that combines the nutritious qualities of tempeh with a delightful blend of spices. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursts with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to create this delicious treat.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (steamed) | 250 grams |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves, finely sliced |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken bouillon powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Spice Mixture: | |
| Shallots | 2 pieces |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Red bell pepper | 1 piece |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 5 pieces |
| Coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | 1 cm piece |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Start by coarsely mashing the steamed tempeh using a mortar and pestle or a fork, ensuring it remains somewhat chunky rather than completely smooth. This texture is crucial for the final dish.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed tempeh with the ground spice mixture and all the other ingredients, including the finely sliced kaffir lime leaves, sugar, bouillon powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Shape the Mendol: With your hands, form the mixture into small oval-shaped patties. Make sure to pack them tightly to ensure they hold their shape while cooking.
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Fry the Mendol: In a deep pan, heat a generous amount of oil until it’s hot. Carefully place the shaped mendol into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Avoid flipping them too often—just turn them once to ensure even cooking. This helps the mendol maintain their structure and crispiness.
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Drain and Serve: Once the mendol is golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot as a delightful snack or side dish.
Nutritional Information
While the nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients used, a serving of Mendol Tempe typically contains:
| Nutrient | Approximate Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Mendol Tempe pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and your favorite sambal (Indonesian chili sauce). Enjoy this dish as part of a larger meal or as a standalone snack with friends and family. Its crunchy exterior and savory flavor will surely be a hit at any gathering.
Indulge in the rich flavors of Indonesia with this easy Mendol Tempe recipe, and let the warmth of its spices bring a touch of love to your table!
