Tempe Bacem Recipe: A Deliciously Sweet and Savory Indonesian Dish
Tempe Bacem is a traditional Indonesian dish where tempeh is marinated in a savory-sweet blend of spices and then fried to perfection. This dish is a wonderful balance of earthy, tangy, and rich flavors, making it a favorite in many Indonesian households. Served as a side dish or main course, this recipe will introduce you to the depth of Indonesian flavors in a simple yet satisfying way.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (long block or rectangular) | 1 block (about 250g) |
| Tamarind (cut into small pieces) | 1 finger-length piece (about 1 tablespoon) |
| Galangal (crushed) | 1 finger-length piece |
| Palm sugar (or brown sugar) | 2 blocks (about 100g) |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 3 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Seasoning (optional) | To taste |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | To taste |
| Coconut water (or plain water) | Enough to submerge the tempe in the pot |
For the Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus):
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots (peeled) | 8 cloves |
| Garlic (peeled) | 3 cloves |
| Coriander powder (ketumbar) | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions:
| Step | Directions |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare the ingredients. | First, grind the shallots, garlic, and coriander powder into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Set aside. |
| 2. Combine the ingredients. | In a wide pan or wok, add the tempe, tamarind, galangal, palm sugar, kaffir lime leaves, and the spice paste you just prepared. Season with salt and any additional seasoning of your choice. Pour in enough coconut water to cover the ingredients. |
| 3. Cook the tempe. | Turn on the heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook on low heat until the liquid reduces and is almost absorbed, and the tempe has absorbed the flavor of the marinade. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. |
| 4. Fry the tempe. | Once the tempe has marinated and the liquid is reduced, heat some oil in a frying pan. Fry the marinated tempe until golden brown and crispy on both sides. |
| 5. Serve and enjoy! | Remove the tempe from the oil, drain any excess oil, and serve while warm with rice or as part of a larger Indonesian meal. |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 7 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
This recipe for Tempe Bacem offers a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors that pair beautifully with rice or any other traditional Indonesian side dish. Whether you’re familiar with Indonesian cuisine or new to it, this recipe is sure to add a touch of authenticity to your kitchen. Enjoy the crispy texture and rich flavor of this beloved dish!
