Pempek Telur Kecil is a traditional Indonesian snack made from fish and tapioca flour, filled with a savory egg center. These bite-sized delights are perfect as a starter or a satisfying snack. Follow this simple recipe to create your own delicious pempek at home.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of ground snakehead fish (or substitute with any firm white fish)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup srikaya (sweetened coconut jam)
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 500 grams tapioca flour
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 3/4 pot water + 1 tablespoon oil (for boiling the pempek)
- For Serving: Vinegar for pempek and sliced cucumber
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground fish, water, salt, and sugar until well combined and smooth. Gradually add 300-400 grams of tapioca flour, stirring continuously until the mixture is well blended. It’s important not to over-knead the dough; use a spoon to mix it to prevent the pempek from becoming tough. -
Prepare the Egg Filling:
In a small bowl, season the beaten eggs with a pinch of salt if desired. This step ensures that the filling is flavorful. -
Shape the Pempek:
Fill a pot with water and a tablespoon of oil, then bring it to a boil. Meanwhile, dust your hands with tapioca flour. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Press your thumb into the center of the ball to create a small indentation, forming a bowl shape. Spoon in a small amount of the seasoned egg mixture. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside, then carefully drop the shaped pempek into the boiling water. -
Cook the Pempek:
Continue shaping and boiling the pempek until all the dough and egg mixture are used up. When the pempek float to the surface and appear puffed up, they are cooked through. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain and cool. -
Serve:
The pempek can be enjoyed as is, or you may choose to fry them for an extra crispy texture. Serve with vinegar and sliced cucumber for a refreshing accompaniment.
Enjoy these delightful bites of Pempek Telur Kecil with family and friends for a taste of traditional Indonesian cuisine!