Semur Tahu: A Savory Indonesian Tofu Delight
Semur Tahu is a delightful Indonesian dish that brings together the earthy flavors of tofu with a rich and aromatic sauce. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also offers a wonderful blend of spices and herbs that are characteristic of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect as a main dish or served alongside steamed rice, Semur Tahu is a true comfort food that will warm your heart.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tahu (tofu) | 3 pieces, cut in half |
| Cabe merah kriting | 5 pieces |
| Cabe rawit | 3 pieces |
| Bawang merah (shallots) | 5 pieces |
| Bawang putih (garlic) | 3 cloves |
| Lengkuas (galangal) | 3 cm |
| Jahe (ginger) | 2 cm |
| Daun salam (bay leaves) | 2 leaves |
| Daun sereh (lemongrass) | 1 stalk |
| Gula merah (brown sugar) | To taste |
| Lada bubuk (pepper) | To taste |
| Garam (salt) | To taste |
| Air (water) | As needed |
| Kecap (soy sauce) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
(Estimated per serving; based on serving size of 2 pieces of tofu)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tofu: Begin by frying the tofu pieces in hot oil until they are golden brown and half-cooked. Remove them from the oil and set aside.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a food processor or mortar and pestle, combine the shallots, garlic, cabe merah kriting, cabe rawit, and brown sugar. Blend or pound these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Sauté the Spices: In a frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add Aromatics: Once the spices are aromatic, introduce the crushed galangal, ginger, bay leaves, and lemongrass to the pan. Continue to sauté for another minute or two until the flavors meld.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in a small amount of water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits that have stuck to the bottom. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
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Season the Sauce: Add salt, pepper, and soy sauce to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
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Combine with Tofu: Carefully add the fried tofu to the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated in the delicious mixture. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar as desired.
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Serve: Once the tofu is well-coated and has absorbed the sauce, remove from heat. Serve hot, paired with steamed rice for a fulfilling meal.
Enjoy the rich flavors of Semur Tahu, a dish that embodies the warmth and heart of Indonesian cuisine, perfect for any gathering or a comforting weeknight dinner.
