Crispy Tempeh Vegetable Fritters: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Crispy Vegetable and Tempe Fritters (Bakwan Tempe Sayur Kriuk)
Embark on a culinary adventure with these delightful Crispy Vegetable and Tempe Fritters, known as Bakwan Tempe Sayur Kriuk. This Indonesian dish beautifully marries the unique flavor of tempeh with a vibrant assortment of vegetables, creating a crispy snack or appetizer that is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfectly golden-brown and crunchy, these fritters can be enjoyed on their own or paired with spicy sambal or a tangy dipping sauce for an added kick.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 1 block (approximately 150 grams) |
| All-purpose flour | 150 grams |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Margarine | 2 tablespoons |
| Carrot | 1, grated |
| Chinese cabbage | 2 leaves |
| Scallions (green onions) | 2 stalks, finely sliced |
| Cesim leaves (or other greens) | 2 leaves, chopped |
| Cabbage | 2 leaves, shredded |
| Celery stalks | 2 stalks, finely chopped |
| Shallots | 3 cloves, minced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Coriander | ½ tablespoon |
| Candlenuts | 3 pieces |
| Turmeric | 1 small piece |
| Salt | to taste |
| Chicken broth powder (optional) | to taste |
| Water | as needed |
| Cooking oil | for frying |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 120 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 grams |
| Fat | 6 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1 gram |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.)
Instructions
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Melt the Margarine: Begin by melting the margarine in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, set aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Tempeh: In a mixing bowl, crumble the tempeh using your hands, ensuring the soybeans remain slightly intact for added texture.
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Chop the Vegetables: Thinly slice all the vegetables, including the carrot, Chinese cabbage, scallions, cesim leaves, and celery. Add them to the bowl with the crumbled tempeh.
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Blend Aromatics: In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, and turmeric. Grind into a fine paste, then incorporate this aromatic mixture into the vegetable-tempeh mix.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and optional chicken broth powder to the bowl. Gradually pour in enough water to create a thick batter that holds together without being overly runny.
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Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, heat enough cooking oil over medium heat to submerge the fritters.
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Fry the Fritters: Using a spoon, drop portions of the batter into the hot oil, shaping them into thin fritters for maximum crispiness. Fry until golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes on each side.
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Drain and Serve: Once the fritters are cooked, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm.
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Dipping Suggestions: These fritters can be enjoyed on their own or accompanied by a spicy sambal, mayonnaise, or sambal cuko. For a personal touch, try dipping them in sambal cuko with sliced chilies for a delightful kick!
Enjoy Your Meal!
These Crispy Vegetable and Tempe Fritters are not only a tasty treat but also an excellent way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your diet. Perfect for gatherings or as a savory snack, they embody the essence of home-cooked Indonesian comfort food. Enjoy!
