Indonesian Braised Tofu with Scallions and Sweet Soy Sauce

Semur Tahu Kecap Daun Bawang: A Delightful Indonesian Braised Tofu Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 blocks of firm tofu
• 4 shallots
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 2 candlenuts
• 1 piece of ginger (about 1-inch)
• 3 stalks of scallions
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 piece of galangal
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• A pinch of Royco seasoning (optional)
• Sufficient water
• Sufficient cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tofu:

   • Rinse the tofu blocks under cold water, then cut them into cubes. Heat oil in a pan and fry the tofu cubes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Peel and chop the shallots and garlic. Blend them together with the candlenuts and ginger until smooth.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

4. Add Aromatics:

   • To the pan with the spice paste, add the chopped scallions, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaf, and slices of galangal. Continue to sauté for a few more minutes to release the flavors.

5. Simmer the Tofu:

   • Pour in enough water to cover the tofu. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the fried tofu cubes. Season with salt, sugar, black pepper, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and sweet soy sauce. Stir well to ensure the tofu is evenly coated with the spices and sauce.

6. Let It Simmer:

   • Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the tofu to absorb the sauce. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding a pinch of Royco seasoning if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once the tofu is well-coated and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pan from heat. Serve your Semur Tahu Kecap Daun Bawang hot, ideally with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian meal.

Tip: For an added touch of authenticity and flavor, consider garnishing with additional fresh scallions or fried shallots before serving.

Enjoy this aromatic and flavorful Semur Tahu Kecap Daun Bawang, a dish that beautifully combines the rich taste of braised tofu with the complex notes of Indonesian spices!