Perkedel Tempe: A Savory Indonesian Delight
Introduction
Perkedel Tempe, a beloved traditional Indonesian dish, combines the rich flavors of tempe with aromatic spices, creating a delightful snack or side dish. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you serve it as a hearty appetizer or a side dish, Perkedel Tempe is sure to impress with its crispy exterior and flavorful interior. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that showcases the essence of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 1 papan (approximately 250g) |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 3, finely chopped |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 2 cloves, minced |
| Galangal (Lengkuas) | 1 cm, sliced |
| Ground Coriander (Ketumbar Bubuk) | 1 teaspoon |
| Bird’s Eye Chili (Cabe Rawit Merah) | 3, chopped |
| Candlenuts (Kemiri) | 2, roasted and chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Flavor Enhancer (Penyedap) | To taste |
| Starch (Tepung Kanji) | 4 tablespoons |
| Egg (Telor Ayam) | 1, beaten |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempe:
Begin by cutting the tempe into small pieces, then steam it for about 10-15 minutes until tender. This steaming process enhances the tempe’s flavor and texture. -
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Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor or mortar and pestle, combine the steamed tempe, shallots, garlic, galangal, ground coriander, bird’s eye chili, and candlenuts. Blend or pound the mixture until it reaches a smooth, homogenous paste. -
Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended mixture with salt, sugar, and flavor enhancer to taste. Gradually add the starch and beaten egg to the mixture, stirring until all ingredients are well combined and form a thick batter. -
Shape the Perkedel:
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small patties or discs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. -
Fry Until Golden:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently add the shaped perkedel to the pan, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Perkedel Tempe is best served hot as a snack or side dish. Pair them with a spicy dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own as a delicious treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Conclusion
Perkedel Tempe is a wonderful example of Indonesian culinary tradition that beautifully marries simplicity and flavor. With its crunchy exterior and soft interior, it serves as a perfect addition to any meal or a delightful snack to enjoy at any time of the day. Try this recipe at home, and savor the authentic taste of Indonesia with every bite!
