Oseng Kering Tempe (Tempe Orek)
Description:
Oseng Kering Tempe, also known as Tempe Orek, is a flavorful Indonesian dish that showcases tempeh—fermented soybean cakes—tossed with an aromatic blend of spices and chilies. The result is a deliciously savory and slightly sweet dish, perfect as a side or a main. The combination of crunchy tempeh with the vibrant flavors of herbs and spices makes it a staple in Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Tempeh | 3 pieces (approximately 1000g each) |
Green chili | 100g (large) |
Red chili | 10 large |
Shallots | 5 cloves |
Garlic | 3 cloves |
Lemongrass | 2 stalks, crushed |
Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
Galangal | 2 slices, crushed |
Palm sugar | To taste |
Salt | To taste |
Cooking oil | Enough for sautéing |
Tamarind | A pinch |
Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempeh:
Begin by slicing the tempeh lengthwise into thin strips. Heat enough cooking oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the tempeh until it is crispy and golden brown. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside to drain on paper towels. -
Chop the Vegetables:
Thinly slice the green chilies and red chilies. Next, finely chop the shallots and garlic to release their aromatic properties. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the shallots and garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant and translucent. -
Add the Chilies and Seasonings:
Toss in the sliced green and red chilies, followed by the crushed palm sugar, tamarind, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and salt. Stir everything together, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop flavor. -
Combine with Tempeh:
Add a splash of water to the pan to help create a bit of sauce. Then, pour in the sweet soy sauce and mix well, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste the mixture, adjusting the sweetness and saltiness as needed. -
Integrate the Tempeh:
Finally, return the crispy tempeh to the pan. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the tempeh absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce. Cook for an additional few minutes until everything is well combined and the dish appears glossy and fragrant. -
Serve:
Once the tempeh is well coated and the vegetables are tender but not overcooked, remove the pan from heat. Serve your Oseng Kering Tempe warm, either on its own or alongside steamed rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Be cautious not to overcook the tempeh once added back to the pan, as it may become too soft or clump together. The goal is to have a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Adjust the level of chilies according to your heat preference; more chilies will enhance the spiciness while maintaining a balanced taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 4 servings)
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Protein | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 20g |
Dietary Fiber | 5g |
Sugars | 5g |
Fat | 7g |
This delightful dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also reflects the heartwarming essence of Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy it with family and friends, and let every bite remind you of the love that cooking brings!