Crispy Chicken-Stuffed Tofu Bites

Tahu Isi Ayam: Crispy Stuffed Tofu Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 pieces of tofu
• 1 egg
• 7 tablespoons tapioca flour
• Chopped scallions
• Salt, to taste
• Chicken bouillon powder, to taste

For the Filling:

• 250 grams ground chicken
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 4 shallots
• 3 cloves garlic
• 5 small red chilies
• Sugar, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Chicken bouillon powder, to taste
• Flour for coating (Sajiku or similar)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tofu Mixture:

   • Start by mashing the tofu in a large mixing bowl. Add the egg and chopped scallions, then incorporate the tapioca flour. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Season with salt and chicken bouillon powder, adjusting to taste.
   • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for approximately 30 minutes to firm up.

2. Make the Filling:

   • Blend the shallots, garlic, and red chilies into a smooth paste. Optionally, add a pinch of coriander for extra flavor.
   • Finely chop the ground chicken and mix it with the carrot.
   • Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the blended paste until fragrant and cooked through.
   • Add the chicken and carrot to the pan. Season with sugar, salt, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Shape and Steam the Tofu:

   • Remove the tofu mixture from the refrigerator. Take a small amount of the mixture and flatten it in your hand, placing a spoonful of the prepared filling in the center. Shape it into a ball or patty, encasing the filling completely.
   • Arrange the shaped tofu balls or patties on a steamer rack. Steam for 5-10 minutes until they are firm and cooked through.

4. Cool and Fry:

   • Let the steamed tofu cool to room temperature.
   • Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer for frying. Prepare two bowls for the coating process. In the first bowl, mix some of the flour with water to make a batter. In the second bowl, place the remaining flour for dredging.
   • Dip each tofu ball into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the flour to coat.
   • Fry the tofu balls in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the crispy stuffed tofu with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish. They can also be stored in the refrigerator and fried fresh as needed. Enjoy!

This recipe yields a delightful blend of crispy tofu and savory chicken filling, perfect for making ahead and enjoying as a tasty snack or meal. Happy cooking!