Orek Tempe Kering: A Delicious Indonesian Delight
Orek Tempe Kering is a flavorful Indonesian dish that features crispy fried tempeh, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. This dish combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with a savory sauce made from spices, herbs, and sweet soy sauce, creating a snack or side dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of this wonderful recipe, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 1 block |
| Red chilies (cabai merah) | 5 large |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 6-8 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 4 cloves |
| Tamarind (asam kandis) | 1 small piece |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 2 leaves |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | 5 leaves |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 4 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar (gula pasir) | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt (garam) | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Mushroom seasoning (kaldu jamur) | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Start by slicing the tempeh into matchstick-sized pieces, ensuring they are not too thick; aim for thin strips to achieve a crispy texture.
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Fry the Tempeh: In a deep frying pan or wok, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the sliced tempeh until golden brown and light, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove the tempeh from the oil and allow it to cool on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
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Prepare the Spice Mixture: While the tempeh cools, prepare the spice blend by grinding the shallots, garlic, and tamarind together into a smooth paste. You can use a mortar and pestle or a food processor for this step.
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Cook the Spice Mixture: In the same pan used for frying, add a small amount of oil over medium heat. Sautรฉ the ground spice mixture until fragrant. Add the sugar, salt, mushroom seasoning, sweet soy sauce, bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and a splash of water (just a little) to the pan. Stir well and taste for seasoning, adjusting if necessary.
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Combine with Tempeh: Once the sauce is well-combined and seasoned, add the cooled tempeh to the pan. Stir continuously to ensure the tempeh is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
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Cool and Store: Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the Orek Tempe Kering into an airtight container for storage.
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods, here is a general idea per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Total Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Serving Suggestions
Orek Tempe Kering can be enjoyed as a snack or served as a side dish alongside rice and vegetables. Its crunchy texture and savory flavor make it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of Indonesian meals, bringing a delightful contrast to softer dishes.
Final Thoughts
This Orek Tempe Kering recipe showcases the beautiful balance of flavors found in Indonesian cuisine, with the crispy tempeh absorbing the aromatic spices and sauces. Itโs not just a dish; itโs a representation of culinary love, perfect for any occasion, whether a family gathering or a cozy night at home. Enjoy making this dish, and share it with your loved ones for a taste of Indonesia!
