Ponggol Tempe Ala Ala: A Delightful Indonesian Tempe Dish
Ponggol Tempe is a savory and aromatic Indonesian dish that brings out the rich flavors of tempeh, complemented by a medley of spices and seasonings. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, Ponggol Tempe is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (medium-sized, cut into small pieces) | 1 board |
| Spice Paste | |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Red chilies (adjust to taste) | 5 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (optional) | To taste |
| Dried shrimp (soaked in hot water) | 1 tablespoon |
| Or shrimp paste (slightly roasted) | 1 teaspoon |
| Candlenuts | 5 pieces |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Galangal (smashed) | 2 inches |
| Lemongrass (smashed) | 1 stalk |
| Green chilies (sliced on the diagonal) | 3 large pieces |
| Soy sauce | To taste |
| Tamarind water | A splash |
| Sugar and salt | To taste |
| Chicken or vegetable bouillon powder (optional) | To taste |
| Cooking oil | For sautéing |
| Water | As needed |
| Coconut milk (optional) | To taste |
Instructions
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In a large pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the finely blended spice paste, along with the smashed galangal, bay leaves, and lemongrass. Sauté until fragrant and the spices are well-cooked.
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Add the Tempeh: Gently add the cut tempeh pieces to the pan. Pour in enough water to almost submerge the tempeh. Stir in the soy sauce, sugar, salt, and tamarind water.
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Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally. As the water reduces by half, add the sliced green chilies and the bouillon powder if using.
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Cook Until Done: Continue cooking until the liquid has evaporated and the tempeh is well-coated with the flavorful sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Serve: Once done, remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your Ponggol Tempe with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | Varies |
Conclusion
Ponggol Tempe Ala Ala is a hearty, flavorful dish that showcases the versatility of tempeh. Its blend of spices creates a rich and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress and bring a taste of Indonesia to your table. Enjoy!
