Tempe Mendoan: A Delightful Indonesian Snack
Tempe Mendoan is a beloved Indonesian street food that combines the hearty, nutty flavor of tempeh with a deliciously crispy coating. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer, this dish is easy to make and bursting with flavor. With a blend of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients, you’ll find that this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Here’s how to create your own Tempe Mendoan at home.
Ingredients
To make Tempe Mendoan, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh turmeric (or turmeric powder) | 1 small piece |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Green onions | 1 small bunch |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 5 pieces |
| Warm water | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Paste:
Begin by peeling the garlic and turmeric. In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, blend the garlic, turmeric, and salt into a smooth paste. The vibrant yellow color of the turmeric will give the dish its signature hue. -
Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, the smooth spice paste, sliced green onions, chopped kaffir lime leaves, and finely chopped bird’s eye chilies. Mix thoroughly. -
Add Water:
Gradually pour in warm water while stirring the mixture until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick batter. The consistency should be such that it can coat the tempeh slices without being too runny. -
Prepare the Tempeh:
Slice the tempeh into thin pieces, approximately 1/4 inch thick. This thickness ensures that the tempeh cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the batter. -
Coat the Tempeh:
Dip each slice of tempeh into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated on both sides. -
Fry the Tempeh:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the battered tempeh slices. Fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. -
Drain and Serve:
Remove the fried tempeh from the oil and let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. -
Enjoy Your Tempe Mendoan:
Serve your Tempe Mendoan hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy it as is. This delightful snack is sure to impress friends and family with its unique flavors and textures!
Cooking Tips
- Tempeh: You can find tempeh in most Asian grocery stores or health food stores. Look for fresh tempeh for the best flavor.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of chilies based on your heat preference. For a milder version, you can reduce or omit the chilies altogether.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of sambal (Indonesian chili paste) or a light soy sauce for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a more complete meal.
Conclusion
Tempe Mendoan is not just a dish; it’s a representation of Indonesian culinary tradition that reflects the rich flavors of its ingredients. With its crispy exterior and soft, savory interior, this snack is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick snack or serving it at your next gathering, this recipe will surely leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Happy cooking! 😊
