Crispy Stuffed Tofu with Spiced Vegetables and Egg

Tahu Isi Sayur Telur (Stuffed Tofu with Vegetables and Egg)

Discover the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delightful recipe for Tahu Isi Sayur Telur, a savory dish featuring tofu stuffed with a delicious mix of vegetables and egg. This dish is perfect for a snack or a main course, offering a crispy exterior with a flavorful, vegetable-packed filling. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering treat:

Ingredients:

For the Tofu:

• 8 large blocks of tofu
• Oil for frying (enough to submerge the tofu)

For the Filling:

• 4 carrots, diced
• 4 green beans, thinly sliced
• 3 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• Sugar, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Flavor enhancer (optional), to taste
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and cut into quarters

For the Batter:

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons tapioca flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 400 ml water

For Serving:

• Chili sauce
• Additional bird’s eye chilies, for extra heat (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tofu:

   • Heat oil in a deep pan or wok until it is hot enough for frying. Carefully fry the tofu blocks, ensuring each side is fully submerged in the oil. Fry until the tofu is golden brown and has a firm, crispy exterior. Remove the tofu from the oil and drain on paper towels. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a pan, heat a small amount of oil and sauté the shallots, garlic, and bird’s eye chilies until they release a fragrant aroma.
   • Add the diced carrots and sliced green beans to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with sugar, salt, and flavor enhancer (if using). Add a small amount of water if needed to help the vegetables cook evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Set the filling mixture aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Batter:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, tapioca flour, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add water while stirring until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.

4. Stuff the Tofu:

   • Carefully create a pocket in each block of tofu without tearing it. You can do this by gently slicing a slit along one side of the tofu.
   • Spoon a portion of the vegetable filling into each tofu pocket. Insert a quarter of a hard-boiled egg into the filling.

5. Coat and Fry:

   • Dip each stuffed tofu block into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the battered tofu until the coating is crispy and golden brown. Be sure to turn the tofu gently to cook all sides evenly.
   • Remove the tofu from the oil and drain on paper towels.

6. Serve:

   • Slice the tofu blocks in half, making sure each piece includes some of the egg slices.
   • Serve the Tahu Isi Sayur Telur warm with chili sauce on the side. For an extra kick, add some fresh bird’s eye chilies.

Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the crispy texture of fried tofu with the hearty, flavorful filling of vegetables and egg. Perfect for a cozy meal or as a crowd-pleasing snack!