Tahu Isi: Indonesian Stuffed Tofu
Embark on a culinary adventure with Tahu Isi, a delightful Indonesian dish featuring crispy, stuffed tofu filled with a vibrant mix of vegetables and noodles. This recipe invites you to explore the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that define Indonesian cuisine. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, Tahu Isi is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tahu pong (firm tofu) | 10 pieces |
| Bihun (rice vermicelli) | 100 grams, soaked in hot water until soft, then drained |
| Carrot | 1, julienned (cut into matchstick shapes) |
| Bean sprouts | 1 handful, cleaned |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, finely minced |
| Green onion | 1 stalk, roughly chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Ground pepper | To taste |
| Dipping Batter | |
| All-purpose flour | 50 grams |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Turmeric powder | A pinch |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Water | As needed for batter consistency |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 150 |
| Protein | 8 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 grams |
| Fat | 5 grams |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Filling
Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the bean sprouts, julienned carrot, and chopped green onion. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp. -
-
Add the Noodles
Once the vegetables have softened, pour in a small amount of water to create steam, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the soaked bihun to the pan, and reduce the heat to low. Season with salt, sugar, and ground pepper. Stir the mixture well to ensure the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the seasonings. Cook until the liquid has mostly evaporated, allowing the flavors to meld together. Set aside to cool slightly. -
Stuff the Tofu
Carefully slice each piece of tofu in half, creating a pocket for the filling. Using a spoon, gently fill each tofu pocket with the vegetable and noodle mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it is packed in but not overflowing. -
Prepare the Dipping Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, minced garlic, turmeric, salt, and enough water to create a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the tofu without dripping off excessively. -
Fry the Tofu
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Dip each stuffed tofu piece into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the coated tofu into the hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the tofu from the oil and drain on paper towels. -
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Tahu Isi to cool slightly before serving. These delicious stuffed tofu can be enjoyed warm, either plain or accompanied by a spicy sambal or chili sauce for an extra kick.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing Tofu: For best results, select firm tofu (tahu pong) to ensure it holds its shape during frying.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: The filling can be prepared in advance, making this dish a great option for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Tahu Isi is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to savor the flavors of Indonesia. Enjoy this delightful recipe and share the love of cooking with family and friends!
