Tempe Orek: A Delicious Indonesian Delight
Discover the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this Tempe Orek recipe, inspired by Natasha’s culinary expertise. Tempe, a traditional soy product, becomes a savory treat with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes. This dish pairs wonderfully with warm rice, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 1 block |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 8 pieces |
| Curly Red Chili Peppers | 1 ounce |
| Brown Sugar | 150 grams |
| Soy Sauce (Kecap) | 3 tablespoons |
| Tamarind Water | To taste |
| Green Onions (Daun Bawang) | To garnish |
| Large Green Chili Peppers | 3 pieces |
| Bird’s Eye Chili Peppers | 10 pieces |
| Margarine (Blue Band) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempe: Begin by cutting the tempe into large, thick pieces, allowing for a satisfying texture once cooked. Heat oil in a pan and fry the tempe pieces until they are half-cooked. This initial frying will enhance the flavor and create a delightful base for the dish.
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Make the Spice Paste: While the tempe is frying, blend the shallots and curly red chili peppers together to form a smooth paste. This mixture will provide a fragrant and spicy foundation for your dish.
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Cook the Spice Mixture: In a pot, combine the blended shallot and chili paste with an adequate amount of water. Allow it to simmer, then add the brown sugar, stirring until it dissolves completely.
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Add Seasonings: Once the sugar has melted into the mixture, incorporate the soy sauce and a splash of tamarind water, adjusting the taste with salt, sugar, and pepper to your preference. Taste and adjust until you achieve a balance of sweetness, spiciness, and umami.
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Combine with Tempe: After the sauce is seasoned to perfection, gently add the fried tempe to the pot. Continue to simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce until it becomes thick and the tempe absorbs the delicious sauce.
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Finish with Fresh Ingredients: As the liquid reduces, add the sliced green onions, large green chili peppers, and whole bird’s eye chili peppers to the mix. These fresh ingredients will add a vibrant color and extra flavor. Once the sauce is nearly gone, stir in the margarine, allowing it to melt and enrich the dish.
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Serve: Your Tempe Orek is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot alongside a steaming bowl of rice for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy!
This Tempe Orek recipe is not only simple but also showcases the unique flavors of Indonesian cooking. With its perfect balance of sweet and spicy, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking! 😊
