Tempe Bacem Istimewa: A Delightful Indonesian Tempe Dish
Introduction
Tempe Bacem Istimewa is a traditional Indonesian dish that celebrates the rich flavors of tempeh marinated in a delightful blend of spices. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of tempeh but also highlights the warm, comforting essence of home-cooked meals. The dish features tempeh that is deep-fried to perfection and then immersed in a sweet and tangy sauce made from aromatic spices, making it a beloved favorite among families. Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a hearty addition to any meal, this Tempe Bacem Istimewa is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Below is a detailed list of the ingredients needed to prepare this delicious Tempe Bacem Istimewa:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (tempe) | 5000 grams |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 4 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 2 cloves |
| Birdโs eye chilies (cabe rawit domba) | 8 pieces |
| Tamarind (asam) | to taste |
| Seasoning (penyedap) | to taste |
| Granulated sugar (gula pasir) | to taste |
| Salt (garam) | to taste |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | to taste |
| Water (air matang) | a little |
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your very own Tempe Bacem Istimewa:
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Prepare the Aromatics: Begin by heating a generous amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the shallots, garlic, and birdโs eye chilies. Sautรฉ them until they release a fragrant aroma and turn slightly golden brown. This step is crucial for enhancing the depth of flavor in your dish.
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Blend the Spices: Once the aromatics are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly. Then, using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the sautรฉed mixture into a fine paste. Add in the granulated sugar and tamarind to this paste, mixing well to incorporate all the flavors.
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Combine the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, transfer the ground spice mixture. Add the salt, seasoning, and sweet soy sauce, followed by a splash of water to achieve a desired consistency. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. This marinade will infuse the tempeh with a rich, savory flavor.
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Prepare the Tempeh: Cut the tempeh into slices or cubes according to your preference. Heat oil in a separate pan and deep-fry the tempeh pieces until they turn golden brown and crispy. The frying process adds a delightful texture to the tempeh.
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Marinate the Tempeh: Once the tempeh is cooked, immediately immerse it into the spice marinade you prepared earlier. Ensure that all pieces are evenly coated in the sauce, allowing them to soak up the flavors.
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Serve and Enjoy: After allowing the tempeh to absorb the marinade for a few minutes, transfer it to a serving plate. Your Tempe Bacem Istimewa is now ready to be enjoyed! It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, vegetables, or even as a delicious side dish.
Conclusion
This Tempe Bacem Istimewa is a beautiful representation of Indonesian culinary traditions, embodying the harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish a family favorite. As my child lovingly says, โMamaโs cooking is the best!โ This heartfelt sentiment reflects the joy and love infused in every bite. Serve this dish at your next gathering and watch as it brings smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy the delightful experience of sharing this wonderful meal together!
