Sayur Tahu Aku
This delectable Sayur Tahu Aku is a wonderful blend of creamy coconut and fragrant spices with tender tofu. Ideal for a comforting meal, this recipe is straightforward and full of flavor.

Ingredients:
- 10 pieces of yellow tofu, cut into triangles
- 2 cans of coconut milk (Santan Kara)
- 3-4 bay leaves (daun salam)
- 1 piece of galangal (laos), sliced
- Salt to taste
- Sugar to taste
- Sasa seasoning (optional)
- Royco beef seasoning (optional)
- Cooking oil for sautéing
- Sufficient water
Spice Blend:
- 10 curly red chilies (cabe keriting)
- 5 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit)
- 10 shallots (bawang merah)
- 5 cloves of garlic (bawang putih)
- 3 candlenuts (kemiri)
- A piece of turmeric (kunyit), about the size of a finger
Instructions:
-
Fry the Tofu:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the tofu pieces until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from oil and set aside. -
Prepare the Spice Paste:
In a blender or food processor, combine the curly red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic, candlenuts, and turmeric. Blend until smooth. -
Sauté the Spice Paste:
Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste. -
Add Seasonings:
Stir in the salt, sugar, and optional Sasa seasoning. Add the bay leaves and galangal slices. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. -
Simmer with Tofu:
Gently add the fried tofu to the pan. Pour in enough water to cover the tofu, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook until the tofu is heated through and has absorbed some of the flavors. -
Incorporate Coconut Milk:
Slowly pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the tofu is well-coated. -
Add Royco Seasoning:
If using, add Royco beef seasoning and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or sugar if needed. -
Finish and Serve:
Once the tofu has absorbed the flavors and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice or as a side dish.
Enjoy your Sayur Tahu Aku, a delightful Indonesian-inspired dish that’s both savory and satisfying!