Bacem Tahu Tempe ala Amy Kekey
Bacem Tahu Tempe, a delightful traditional Indonesian dish, is a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors. This recipe, inspired by the personal touch of Amy Kekey, elevates simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying dish that can be served as a side or main course. The preparation involves marinating tempe and tofu in a fragrant blend of spices and coconut milk, resulting in a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (medium-sized block) | 1 piece |
| Firm tofu | 15 pieces |
| Red chili peppers | 5 pieces |
| Medium-sized shallots | 10 pieces |
| Garlic cloves | 5 pieces |
| Large candlenuts (kemiri) | 2 pieces |
| Ground black pepper | 1/5 tablespoon |
| Ginger | A small piece |
| Turmeric | A small piece |
| Suncara coconut milk | 1 package |
| Tamarind paste | To taste |
| Brown sugar | To taste |
| Sweet soy sauce | To taste |
| Salt, MSG, and seasoning | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by finely grinding the garlic, shallots, red chili peppers, candlenuts, ginger, turmeric, and black pepper into a smooth paste. This can be done using a mortar and pestle or a food processor for convenience.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the ground spice mixture until fragrant. This step is essential as it enhances the flavors of the spices.
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Season the Mixture: Once the spices are aromatic, add salt, MSG, brown sugar, and tamarind paste. Stir well until everything is combined and the mixture thickens slightly.
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Add Tofu and Tempe: Gently place the sliced tempe and tofu into the pan, ensuring they are well-coated with the spice mixture. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the tofu.
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Incorporate Coconut Milk: After one minute, pour in the Suncara coconut milk. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to reduce slightly.
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Finish with Sweet Soy Sauce: Add sweet soy sauce to the pan and stir. Cover again and allow the dish to cook for a few more minutes, letting the sauce soak into the tempe and tofu.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the mixture has thickened and absorbed the flavors, turn off the heat. Serve the Bacem Tahu Tempe warm, garnished with fresh herbs or sliced chili if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful snack.
Tips for the Perfect Bacem Tahu Tempe
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to add more or fewer chili peppers according to your heat preference.
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like green beans or carrots to the dish for added texture and nutrition.
- Make it Ahead: Bacem Tahu Tempe tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
This Bacem Tahu Tempe recipe is not only easy to make but also rich in flavor and nutrition. Enjoy the delightful taste of this beloved Indonesian dish at your next family meal or gathering!
