Semur Tahu: A Delicious Indonesian Tofu Stew
Semur Tahu, an aromatic and flavorful Indonesian dish, brings together the richness of tofu with a delightful blend of spices and seasonings. This savory stew is perfect for those seeking a comforting and satisfying meal, infused with a touch of heat from the chilies. Enjoy this delightful recipe that showcases the wonderful flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Firm tofu | 4 pieces, sliced into halves |
| Ground Spices | |
| Shallots | 7 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 2 pieces |
| Coarse black pepper | To taste |
| Bird’s eye chili | 3 pieces (adjust for desired spiciness) |
| Pounded Spices | |
| Galangal | 1 segment |
| Lemongrass | 1 segment |
| Ginger | 1 segment |
| Bay leaves | 3 leaves |
| Nutmeg | ½ nut |
| Soy sauce | 5 tablespoons |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chicken stock powder | To taste |
| Fried shallots | For garnish |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by preparing the ingredients to be ground into a paste. Use a mortar and pestle or a food processor to finely grind the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, coarse black pepper, and bird’s eye chili until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Prepare the Pounded Spices: Next, pound the galangal, lemongrass, ginger, bay leaves, and nutmeg together until they are well crushed, releasing their aromatic oils.
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Fry the Tofu: Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add the sliced tofu and fry until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the Ground Spices: In the same pan, add the ground spice mixture and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the pounded spices, continuing to sauté for an additional minute until the spices are aromatic.
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Combine and Simmer: Pour in enough water to create a sauce, then add the soy sauce, salt, sugar, and chicken stock powder. Stir well to combine all the flavors, and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Add Tofu and Serve: Gently place the fried tofu into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow the dish to simmer for about 10 minutes so the tofu can absorb the flavors. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the Semur Tahu hot, garnished with fried shallots on top for added texture and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200-250 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | Varies based on added salt and soy sauce |
Conclusion
Semur Tahu is more than just a meal; it is an exploration of Indonesian flavors that can easily be adapted to suit your taste. The combination of spices creates a beautifully rich sauce that envelops the tofu, making it a delightful vegetarian option. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy gathering, this dish will surely impress your family and friends! Enjoy your culinary journey into the heart of Indonesian cuisine with this easy-to-follow recipe.
