Opor Ayam Tahu Tempe: A Heartwarming Indonesian Dish
Embark on a culinary journey to Indonesia with this delightful recipe for Opor Ayam Tahu Tempe, a rich and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken, tofu, and tempeh, simmered in a creamy coconut sauce infused with traditional spices. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and the wonderful flavors that make this dish a beloved staple in Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (cut into 4 pieces) | 250 grams (1/4 kg) |
| Tofu (firm) | 1 box (approximately 200 grams) |
| Tempeh | 1 box (approximately 200 grams) |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk |
| Salam leaves | 2 leaves |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Thick coconut milk | 100 ml |
| Chicken broth | 100 ml |
| Spices to be ground | |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Roasted candlenuts | 3 pieces |
| Ginger | 1 cm piece |
| Turmeric (aged) | 2 cm piece |
| Galangal | 1 cm piece |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar | to taste |
| Flavor enhancer (like Masako) | to taste |
| Cumin | a pinch |
| Fried shallots | for garnish |
Preparation Steps
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Cook the Chicken: Begin by boiling the chicken pieces in a pot of water until fully cooked and tender. This process ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful.
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Prepare the Tofu and Tempeh: While the chicken is cooking, cut the tofu and tempeh into bite-sized pieces. Heat oil in a pan and fry the tofu and tempeh until they are lightly golden and semi-cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside to drain excess oil.
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Blend the Spices: In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, roasted candlenuts, ginger, turmeric, and galangal. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste, which will form the base of your sauce.
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Sauté the Spice Mixture: In a large pot or wok, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sauté until fragrant, allowing the spices to release their aromas. This step is crucial for developing the dish’s flavor profile.
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Add Aromatics: Once the spices are fragrant, add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and salam leaves to the pot. Stir them in to infuse their flavors into the mixture.
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Combine Ingredients: Now, add the fried tofu and tempeh to the pot, along with the boiled chicken pieces. Pour in the chicken broth, and stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
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Season the Dish: Add the flavor enhancer, sugar, and salt according to your taste preferences. Stir the mixture and bring it to a boil.
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Add Coconut Milk: Once the broth is boiling, gently pour in the thick coconut milk. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes. Be careful not to let the coconut milk boil vigorously, as this can cause it to separate.
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Final Adjustments: After simmering for about 5-10 minutes, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Serve: Once ready, turn off the heat and serve the Opor Ayam Tahu Tempe hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fried shallots on top. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or ketupat (rice cakes).
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 20-25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 grams |
| Fat | 25-30 grams |
| Fiber | 2-4 grams |
Opor Ayam Tahu Tempe is not only a delicious meal but also a reflection of the warm and vibrant culture of Indonesia. Its comforting flavors and fragrant spices create a dish that brings families together, making it a perfect addition to any dining table. Enjoy this delightful recipe and savor every bite of this Indonesian treasure!
