Tahu Ulek: A Delicious Indonesian Tofu Dish
Tahu Ulek, a traditional Indonesian dish, combines the rich flavors of tofu with aromatic spices, creating a delightful culinary experience that can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. With its unique blend of ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, bringing a taste of Indonesia right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tahu Bandung (tofu) | 10 pieces |
| Bawang Merah (shallots) | 2 pieces |
| Bawang Putih (garlic) | 3 pieces |
| Daun Bawang (green onions) | 1 stalk, thinly sliced |
| Kemiri (candlenuts) | 1 piece |
| Cooking Oil | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tofu: Begin by gently mashing or ulek the tofu in a large bowl until it reaches a somewhat smooth consistency. This will help it absorb the flavors of the spices.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, and candlenuts. Ulek (or blend) these ingredients until they form a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture will infuse your dish with rich flavors.
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Heat the Oil: In a frying pan or wok, heat a sufficient amount of cooking oil over medium heat until it is hot. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: Carefully add the spice paste from step 2 into the hot oil. Sauté the mixture for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until the paste becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This step enhances the flavors, releasing the essential oils from the spices.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the spice mixture is aromatic, add the mashed tofu along with the sliced green onions to the pan. Gently stir everything together until the tofu is well coated with the spice paste. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Season and Serve: Taste the dish and add salt as needed to enhance the flavors. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pan from heat.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the Tahu Ulek to a serving dish and serve warm. This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and can be enjoyed as a savory main or a side dish to complement your meal.
Final Thoughts
Tahu Ulek is not only easy to prepare but also a flavorful and nutritious option that celebrates the essence of Indonesian cuisine. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect dish for any occasion, allowing you to share the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia with your loved ones. Enjoy this delightful tofu dish as part of your next meal, and savor every bite!
