Tahu Tempe Cabe Garam Kemangi (Fried Tofu and Tempe with Chili, Salt, and Basil)
This simple yet flavorful dish features crispy fried tofu and tempe, paired with a savory blend of fresh chili, garlic, and aromatic basil leaves. The combination of crispy textures and aromatic flavors makes this an irresistible option for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tempe (cut into small pieces) | 500g (half a block of tempe) |
| Tofu (Chinese style, boiled with a pinch of salt) | 1 block (cut into cubes) |
| Fresh basil leaves | 3 bunches (pick the leaves, wash them well) |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 8 cloves (chopped into small, thin pieces) |
| Cooking oil | As needed for frying |
Coating Flour
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 5 tablespoons |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
Chili Seasoning
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bird’s eye chilies (sliced thin) | 4 small chilies (adjust to taste) |
| Garlic (thinly sliced) | 2 cloves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Green onion (thinly sliced) | 1 stalk |
| Non-MSG seasoning powder (optional) | ½ teaspoon (can be skipped) |
Instructions
-
Fry the Tempe:
- Cut the tempe into small pieces and fry them until golden and crispy. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
-
Prepare the Coating for Tofu:
- In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Stir to combine, then set aside.
-
Prepare the Tofu:
- Boil the Chinese-style tofu with a pinch of salt. Once it is soft, drain it and cut it into cubes. Coat the tofu cubes with the prepared flour mixture. Fry the tofu cubes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Garlic Garnish:
- In a frying pan, sauté the garlic until it turns golden brown. Be careful not to burn it. Once golden, remove the garlic from the pan and set it aside for use as a garnish.
-
Make the Chili Seasoning:
- In the same pan, heat a little oil and sauté the sliced garlic until fragrant. Add the sliced bird’s eye chilies and stir-fry briefly to release their aroma.
-
Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the fried tempe and tofu into the pan with the garlic and chili. Stir well to combine.
-
Season the Dish:
- Season with salt and optional non-MSG seasoning powder. Stir well and taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
-
Add the Fresh Herbs:
- Add the sliced green onion and fresh basil leaves. Increase the heat slightly and stir everything together until the basil starts to wilt.
-
Serve:
- Once the basil is wilted, turn off the heat. Serve the crispy tofu and tempe with a sprinkle of the golden fried garlic on top.
Enjoy this fragrant and delicious dish as part of your food combining meal, or serve it alongside steamed rice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that blends crisp textures and aromatic flavors!
