Crispy Spicy Stuffed Tempeh (Tempe Isi Cabe Kriuk)
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Crispy Spicy Stuffed Tempeh (Tempe Isi Cabe Kriuk), a popular Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the nuttiness of tempeh with a spicy chili filling, resulting in a crispy, satisfying treat that’s perfect as a snack or appetizer. With its rich textures and enticing aroma, this recipe invites you to explore the vibrant world of Indonesian cuisine right from your kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delectable dish:

Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Medium-sized tempeh | 2 boards |
All-purpose flour | 6 tablespoons |
Bird’s eye chilies | 10 pieces (adjust to taste) |
Garlic | 3 cloves |
Shallots | 3 cloves |
Coriander | ½ teaspoon |
Kaffir lime leaf | 1 small leaf |
Turmeric | To taste |
Salt | To taste |
Flavor enhancer | To taste |
Instructions
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with these simple yet flavorful steps:
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Prepare the Chili Paste:
Begin by making the chili paste. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the bird’s eye chilies along with 1 clove of garlic until they soften and become fragrant. Once done, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to a mortar and pestle or a blender, then add salt to taste and pound or blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Set aside. -
Prepare the Tempeh:
Slice the tempeh according to your preference, making sure to cut it in half without completely separating the two sides. This creates a pocket to hold the chili paste. Carefully stuff each piece with the prepared chili paste, ensuring they are generously filled. -
Create the Coating Mixture:
In a mortar and pestle or a blender, combine the remaining garlic, shallots, coriander, kaffir lime leaf, and turmeric, and blend until smooth. Transfer this mixture into a bowl and stir in the all-purpose flour until well incorporated. Add salt and flavor enhancer to taste, and mix everything until you have a cohesive batter. Adjust the consistency if necessary. -
Fry the Stuffed Tempeh:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over low heat. Once the oil is hot, gently dip each stuffed tempeh piece into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the coated tempeh in the hot oil, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. This process usually takes around 3-5 minutes per side, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning. -
Serving:
Once cooked to perfection, remove the tempeh from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot as a snack or appetizer, and enjoy the delightful crunch combined with the spicy filling!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 250 kcal (approx.) |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
Total Fat | 10 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
This Crispy Spicy Stuffed Tempeh recipe not only captures the essence of traditional Indonesian flavors but also offers a unique culinary experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer or a tasty snack, each bite brings a wonderful medley of textures and tastes, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results that come with it!