Mendol Tempe: A Simple and Delicious Tempeh Delight
Mendol tempe is a delightful Indonesian dish that combines the rich flavors of tempeh with a blend of aromatic spices, resulting in a crispy and savory treat. Perfect as a snack or a side dish, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also uses ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. Let’s dive into the preparation of this delectable dish that will surely impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (medium-sized) | 2 pieces |
| Tapioca flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili (adjust to taste) | 5 pieces |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | 2 pieces (about 1-2 inches) |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 5 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Oil (for frying) | As needed |
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start by steaming the tempeh until cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Once steamed, let it cool slightly before handling. |
| 2 | In a mortar and pestle, pound the steamed tempeh until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture. |
| 3 | Next, prepare the spice mixture by pounding the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chili, kencur, and kaffir lime leaves until you achieve a fine paste. |
| 4 | Combine the pounded tempeh with the spice mixture in a large bowl. Mix well to ensure the flavors meld together beautifully. |
| 5 | Gradually add the tapioca flour to the mixture to help bind the ingredients together and prevent crumbling during frying. |
| 6 | Season the mixture with salt and sugar to taste. It’s essential to taste and adjust the seasoning at this stage for optimal flavor. |
| 7 | Shape the mixture into elongated, oval-shaped patties (about the size of your palm) to ensure even cooking and a pleasing presentation. |
| 8 | Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the shaped patties in the hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. |
| 9 | Once fried, remove the mendol from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. |
| 10 | Serve the mendol tempe hot as a delicious snack or side dish. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or sambal for an extra kick! |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Sugars | 1g |
Enjoy Your Mendol Tempe!
Mendol tempe is not only delicious but also a healthy option packed with protein and essential nutrients from tempeh. Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy during movie night or a unique side dish for your next gathering, this mendol tempe recipe is sure to be a hit. Experiment with the spice levels by adjusting the amount of bird’s eye chili to suit your palate, and don’t hesitate to serve it alongside a zesty sambal or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal experience. Happy cooking!
