Stir-Fried Tempe with Pakcoy (Tumis Tempe Pakcoy)
Tumis Tempe Pakcoy is a savory, satisfying stir-fry dish that perfectly blends crispy fried tempeh with the freshness of pakcoy (bok choy), all complemented by the rich flavors of oyster sauce and a hint of sweetness. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish to any main meal, this recipe is simple, nutritious, and packed with umami.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pakcoy (bok choy) | 1 bunch |
| Onion (shallot) | 1/2 medium |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves |
| Red chili | 2 pieces |
| Green chili | 1 piece |
| Tempe (fermented soybean cake) | 1/2 block |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Cornstarch (optional) | 1/2 tbsp |
| Chinese chives (daun kucai) | 2 stalks |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 1 cup |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the tempeh into thin pieces, then fry until crispy and golden brown. Set aside.
- Slice the red and green chilies, onion, and pakcoy into bite-sized pieces.
- Crush the garlic with the side of a knife and chop finely.
- Cut the Chinese chives into 2-inch lengths.
-
Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
- Heat some oil in a wok or frying pan. Add the garlic, onion, and chilies. Sauté over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
-
Add Water and Pakcoy:
- Pour in 1 cup of water, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the pakcoy and stir-fry until it wilts and becomes tender, about 3-4 minutes.
-
Combine Tempeh and Seasonings:
- Once the pakcoy is cooked, add the fried tempeh to the pan.
- Stir in the oyster sauce, salt, and sugar. Adjust the seasoning to taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water and add it to the pan, stirring well.
-
Finishing Touches:
- Add the chopped Chinese chives to the mix and stir for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse their flavor into the dish.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
-
Serve:
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Tumis Tempe Pakcoy with steamed rice or as a side to your main course.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian-friendly option, ensure the oyster sauce is plant-based, or substitute with a mushroom-based sauce.
- Adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer chilies to suit your taste.
This dish is a wonderful combination of textures and flavors, with the crispy tempeh contrasting the tender pakcoy, while the aromatic garlic and chilies bring a delightful fragrance to the table. Quick to prepare, yet packed with bold flavors, Tumis Tempe Pakcoy is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
