Tempe Mendoan is a popular Indonesian dish made with thin slices of tempe, marinated and coated in a flavorful batter before being deep-fried until crispy. It’s a delicious snack or side dish, typically enjoyed with sambal kecap (soy sauce with chili) and fresh vegetables. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a light meal or as a snack to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tempe (cut into slices) | 2 pieces |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 3 cloves |
| Coriander | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric (fresh, sliced) | 2 cm |
| Chicken stock powder (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 100 grams |
| Spring onions (chopped) | 4 stalks |
| Water | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | 200 ml |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Tempe:
- Cut the tempe into thin slices as desired.
- Soak the tempe slices in a bowl of salted water for about 10 minutes to marinate.
-
Make the Batter:
- In a mortar or blender, combine the garlic, turmeric, and coriander. Blend or grind until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
- Transfer the paste into a mixing bowl. Add the chicken stock (optional), salt, sugar, and water to the paste. Mix well.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture and stir until the batter becomes thick and smooth.
- Incorporate the chopped spring onions into the batter.
-
Coat the Tempe:
- After soaking the tempe, dip each slice into the prepared batter, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated.
-
Fry the Tempe:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over low heat. This helps cook the tempe thoroughly, giving it a crisp and golden exterior.
- Fry the battered tempe slices until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remove from the oil and place the tempe on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
-
Serve:
- Serve the Tempe Mendoan hot with a side of sambal kecap (soy sauce with chopped chili) and fresh vegetable garnishes like cucumber, cabbage, and chili for an extra kick.
Tips:
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili in the sambal kecap.
- For a lighter version, use less oil for frying or opt for shallow frying instead of deep frying.
This Tempe Mendoan is crispy, savory, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends, and savor the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine!