Delightful Tahu Isi: Indonesian Stuffed Tofu Recipe
Tahu Isi, or stuffed tofu, is a beloved Indonesian dish that combines crispy tofu with a savory vegetable filling. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer. With a blend of fresh vegetables and a touch of spice, this dish will surely be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Triangular brown tofu | 1 package (approx. 250g) |
| Standard-sized carrots | 2, julienned |
| Bean sprouts | 1 bowl (about 100g) |
| Shallots | 3, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 2, chopped |
| Shrimp paste (terasi) | A pinch |
| Salt | ½ tablespoon |
| Water | 50 ml |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Rice flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Additional water | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Fat | 6g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tofu:
Begin by boiling the triangular brown tofu in salted water until it reaches a rolling boil. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Once boiled, drain the tofu and set it aside to cool slightly. -
Make the Spice Paste:
In a mortar and pestle or food processor, blend together the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chilies, shrimp paste, and salt until it forms a smooth paste. This will be the flavor base for your filling. -
Cook the Filling:
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the hot oil and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the julienned carrots and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes. Next, incorporate the bean sprouts and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain crisp. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. -
Stuff the Tofu:
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a small opening in the base of each tofu triangle to create a pocket. Stuff each piece of tofu generously with the vegetable filling, ensuring they are well-packed. -
Prepare the Coating:
In a bowl, combine any remaining liquid from the vegetable mixture with all-purpose flour, rice flour, and a pinch of salt. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add more water until you achieve a smooth, slightly runny batter. -
Fry the Tofu:
Heat a deep skillet or wok filled with cooking oil over medium-high heat until hot. Dip each stuffed tofu piece into the flour mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the tofu into the hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. -
Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the tofu from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the Tahu Isi hot, either plain or with a side of spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Enjoy Your Creation!
This Tahu Isi is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. Each bite offers a wonderful contrast of crispy tofu and flavorful vegetables, making it a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main meal, this dish embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Happy cooking!
