Tempe Mozzarella Nuggets
Embark on a culinary adventure with these delightful Tempe Mozzarella Nuggets, a dish that harmoniously blends the rich, nutty flavors of tempe with the gooey indulgence of mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a snack or an appetizer, these nuggets are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that showcases the versatility of tempe while adding a touch of cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (steamed for 15 minutes) | 1 block (approximately 250g) |
| Carrots (grated) | 2 medium |
| Green onion (finely sliced) | 1 stalk |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons (heaping) |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Chicken egg | 1 large |
| Quick-melt cheese | To taste (approximately 100g) |
| For the Spice Paste | |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Coriander seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| For the Coating | |
| Chicken egg | 1 large |
| Breadcrumbs | As needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempe Mixture: Begin by thoroughly mashing the steamed tempe in a large mixing bowl until it reaches a smooth consistency. To this, add the grated carrots, finely sliced green onions, the prepared spice paste, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and one beaten egg. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring a homogenous texture.
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Shape the Nuggets: Grease your chosen molds or a small baking tray with cooking oil. Spoon the tempe mixture into the molds, making sure to pack it tightly. For a delightful surprise, place small cubes of quick-melt cheese into the center of each nugget. You can use any shape of your choice; round or oval works beautifully.
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Steam the Nuggets: Place the filled molds in a steamer and steam for approximately 15 minutes. Once done, carefully remove them from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes to firm up.
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Coat the Nuggets: Once cooled, gently remove the nuggets from the molds. Prepare a dipping station by beating another egg in one bowl and placing breadcrumbs in another. Dip each nugget first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
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Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated nuggets and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or simply enjoy them as they are!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 180 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
Tips for Success
- Tempe Substitutes: If you cannot find tempe, you can use firm tofu, but the flavor will differ slightly.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: These nuggets pair wonderfully with a side of sweet chili sauce, garlic mayonnaise, or a fresh salad for a more balanced meal.
This recipe not only highlights the adaptability of tempe but also brings a comforting, cheesy twist to your snack repertoire. Enjoy making these Tempe Mozzarella Nuggets, perfect for any occasion where you want to delight and surprise your guests with something deliciously unique!
