Lumpia Tempe: A Savory Delight with a Crispy Twist
Lumpia, a beloved snack or appetizer in many Southeast Asian kitchens, gets a delightful twist with the use of tempe, a traditional Indonesian fermented soy product. This recipe infuses tempe with aromatic garlic and seasoning, wrapped in a crispy lumpia shell, resulting in a mouthwatering treat that is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for gatherings, these crunchy tempe rolls are a flavorful alternative to the classic meat-filled spring rolls.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lumpia wrappers (skins) | 1 pack |
| Tempe (fermented soy) | 1 block |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Salt | 1 tbsp |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | To taste |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Instructions
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the garlic mixture: Peel and crush the garlic with salt until you create a smooth paste. Add a small amount of water to the mixture to soften the texture. |
| 2 | Slice the tempe: Cut the tempe into thick slices and submerge them in the garlic-salt mixture. Let them soak for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. |
| 3 | Fry the tempe: Heat oil in a pan, and carefully fry the tempe slices until golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil and set aside to drain any excess oil. |
| 4 | Season the tempe: In a mortar and pestle (or using a food processor), mash the fried tempe with a dash of flavor enhancer (optional) to add an extra depth of taste. |
| 5 | Wrap the lumpia: Lay a lumpia wrapper flat, place a portion of the seasoned tempe mixture in the center, and carefully roll it tightly. Seal the edges with a bit of water if needed. |
| 6 | Fry the lumpia: Heat oil again and fry the rolled lumpia until they turn golden brown and crispy, making sure they are evenly cooked. |
| 7 | Serve: Once the lumpia are crisp and cooked through, drain on paper towels and serve hot. Enjoy these crunchy, flavorful rolls with a dipping sauce of your choice. |
Tips & Variations
- Dipping sauces: Pair your lumpia tempe with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with a dash of lime, or a tangy peanut sauce for an added punch of flavor.
- Flavor variations: For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped onions, carrots, or even mushrooms to the tempe filling before wrapping.
- Vegan friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan, making it a perfect option for plant-based diets.
These Lumpia Tempe are sure to be a hit at any event, combining the familiar comfort of fried spring rolls with the wholesome goodness of tempe. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, they offer a delicious alternative that’s both nutritious and flavorful.
