Orek Tempe Basah: A Savory Tempeh Delight
Indulge in the rich flavors of Orek Tempe Basah, a beloved Indonesian dish that combines the nutty taste of tempeh with aromatic spices and a touch of sweetness. This recipe offers a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block (papan) |
| Galangal (smashed) | 1 cm |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 3 tablespoons |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf |
| Cooking oil | To taste |
| Ground spices: | |
| Shallots | 10 pieces |
| Garlic | 8 cloves |
| Curly red chili peppers | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chili peppers | 5 pieces |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | ½ tablespoon |
| Water | 4 cups |
| Salt | ½ tablespoon |
| Broth powder (optional) | To taste |
Instructions
| Steps |
|---|
| 1. Prepare the Tempeh: Cut the tempeh into cubes, approximately 1 cm in size. |
| 2. Fry the Tempeh: Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tempeh cubes and fry until golden brown. Once cooked, remove and drain on paper towels. |
| 3. Sauté the Spices: In the same pan, add the ground spices and sauté until fragrant, stirring continuously to avoid burning. |
| 4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the water, followed by the sweet soy sauce, bay leaf, and smashed galangal. Gently add the fried tempeh to the mixture. |
| 5. Cook to Perfection: Allow the tempeh to simmer in the sauce for about 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the tempeh nicely. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. |
| 6. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Transfer the Orek Tempe Basah to a serving plate and enjoy! |
Cooking Tips
- Tempeh Freshness: Choose fresh tempeh for the best flavor and texture. Look for a firm block without any off-smells.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your heat preference. For a milder dish, reduce the quantity of bird’s eye chilies.
- Serving Suggestions: Orek Tempe Basah pairs beautifully with steamed rice and a side of vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as part of a larger spread of Indonesian dishes.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
Conclusion
Orek Tempe Basah is a dish that embodies the spirit of Indonesian cuisine with its aromatic spices and deliciously tender tempeh. It’s simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this savory delight and share it with family and friends—happy cooking!
