Sautéed Tempeh, Tofu, and Green Beans Recipe

Introduction

In the vibrant realm of Indonesian cuisine, dishes that celebrate the union of earthy flavors, fresh produce, and aromatic spices are abundant. Among these, the Tumis Tempe Tahu Buncis—or sautéed tempeh, tofu, and green beans—stands out as a dish that encapsulates authenticity, nutrition, and simplicity. This recipe is more than just a stir-fry; it’s a culinary journey into Indonesian flavor profiles that emphasize balance and harmony. It combines the hearty, fermented goodness of tempeh with the soft, protein-rich tofu, complemented by the crispness of green beans and a touch of sweetness from tomato.

Perfectly suited for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone seeking a wholesome plant-based meal, this dish is quick to prepare and adaptable to various dietary needs. It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests with authentic Indonesian flavors. At Love With Recipes, we believe that cooking should be accessible, nourishing, and joyful—this recipe embodies those principles, inviting you to explore Indonesian culinary traditions in your own kitchen.

Time

Total preparation and cooking time: approximately 30 minutes

• Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large non-stick frying pan or wok
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Strainer or colander for washing vegetables
• Serving dish or platter

Tags

• #IndonesianCuisine
• #Vegetarian
• #Vegan
• #StirFry
• #HealthyEating
• #PlantBased
• #QuickMeal

Serving Size

Serves approximately 4 people, with a typical serving size of about 1 cup (250 ml).

Difficulty Level

Easy — This recipe requires basic chopping, frying, and stir-frying techniques suitable for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Vegan: Yes (if Royco seasoning contains animal products, omit or substitute)
• Gluten-Free: Yes (if seasoning is gluten-free)

Course

Main Course / Vegetarian Main Dish

Cuisine

Indonesian

Ingredients

Ingredient List

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation of Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and preparing them for cooking. Carefully wash the green beans under cold running water, then trim the ends and cut them into manageable pieces. For the tomato, choose a ripe, medium-sized specimen, and dice it finely or mash it with a fork until it forms a soft pulp. This will help in releasing the natural sweetness and moisture, enriching the stir-fry’s flavor.

Next, peel and thinly slice the shallots. Mince the garlic finely. Cut the tempeh into small, uniform cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size, to ensure even frying and a pleasing texture. Do the same for the tofu, pressing it lightly beforehand if necessary to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a crispy exterior.

Step 2: Frying the Tempeh

Heat a large non-stick pan or wok over medium heat. Add about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of cooking oil and allow it to warm up. Carefully place the cubed tempeh into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding to prevent steaming. Cook the tempeh in batches if necessary.

Fry the tempeh until it develops a golden-brown crust on all sides, turning frequently with a spatula or tongs. This process takes approximately 5 to 7 minutes. The crispy exterior paired with its dense, nutty flavor makes tempeh a perfect protein source in this dish. Once fried, transfer the tempeh to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Frying the Tofu

In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Gently place the tofu cubes into the pan, making sure they are not overcrowded. Fry the tofu until it is golden brown and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly. Like tempeh, tofu absorbs flavors well, and frying it enhances its texture, making it more appealing in the stir-fry. Remove the tofu and set aside with the tempeh.

Step 4: Sautéing Aromatics

In the same pan, if there is leftover oil, you can use it or add a little more to enhance the flavor. Add the sliced shallots and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until fragrant and translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes. This step releases aromatic compounds that form the flavor base of the dish, infusing the oil and ingredients with depth.

Step 5: Incorporating Vegetables and Tomato

Add the mashed or finely chopped tomato to the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomato to soften and release its juices, creating a natural sauce. Next, introduce the green beans into the pan. Stir-fry the mixture for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until the beans are tender yet still vibrant and crisp. This ensures a perfect balance between texture and flavor, with the fresh green beans providing a delightful crunch to the dish.

Step 6: Combining and Seasoning

Return the fried tempeh and tofu to the pan. Mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece is coated with the aromatic mixture. Add the salt and sugar, adjusting to taste depending on your preference for sweetness and saltiness. If desired, sprinkle in Royco seasoning to add depth and umami flavor. Stir well to combine and allow the dish to heat through for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Serving

Once everything is heated evenly and flavors are well integrated, transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish. Serve hot, accompanied by steamed jasmine rice or other preferred side dishes. This dish pairs beautifully with simple white rice, but can also be enjoyed with other grains or noodles for variety.

Preparation Tips

• Vegetable prep: Always wash vegetables thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides. Cutting vegetables into uniform sizes ensures even cooking.
• Tofu pressing: For extra firmness, press tofu by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a weight on top for 10-15 minutes before cubing.
• Frying tips: Use medium heat to prevent burning the oil or over-browning the ingredients. Always monitor the heat and adjust as necessary.
• Flavor balancing: Taste the seasoning before adding Royco or salt, as some seasonings can be salty. Adjust accordingly.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use firm or extra-firm tofu: This prevents tofu from breaking apart during frying and results in a more satisfying texture.
• Enhance flavor: Consider adding a splash of coconut aminos or soy sauce during stir-frying for added umami.
• Adjust spice levels: For added heat, incorporate sliced red chili or chili flakes during sautéing.
• Vegetable variation: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for variation.

Add-ons

• Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
• A squeeze of lime or lemon to add brightness
• Crushed peanuts or fried shallots for extra crunch

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Indonesian fried rice (Nasi Goreng)
• Steamed vegetables or salad
• Simple vegetable sambal or chili sauce

Improvements

• Add coconut milk: For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in a splash of coconut milk during cooking.
• Use homemade seasoning: Replace Royco with a homemade vegetable stock cube or seasoning paste to control sodium and flavor quality.
• Make it spicier: Incorporate sliced bird’s eye chilies or chili paste for a fiery kick.
• Garnish creatively: Top with toasted sesame seeds or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. For best results, reheat without overcooking, as tofu and tempeh can become mushy if overdone. You can also prepare the vegetables and proteins separately, storing them in separate containers, and combine just before serving to maintain freshness.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables instead of green beans?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or snap peas work well and add variety. Adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain desired textures.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, provided you use vegan-friendly seasonings and ensure the Royco seasoning is plant-based. Check labels carefully or substitute with homemade seasoning blends.

How can I make this dish more spicy?

Add sliced red chilies, chili flakes, or chili paste during sautéing with the aromatics for an extra fiery kick.

What are good protein alternatives?

Firm tempeh and tofu are ideal for this recipe, but you can also add tempeh bacon, seitan, or seitan-based products for variation.

Conclusion

The Sautéed Tempeh, Tofu, and Green Beans (Tumis Tempe Tahu Buncis) offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that highlight the richness of Indonesian culinary traditions. Its simplicity, nutritional value, and adaptability make it an excellent addition to any healthy eating plan. Whether served as a standalone main or as part of a larger Indonesian feast, this dish is sure to satisfy your palate and nourish your body. At Love With Recipes, we celebrate the art of home cooking—this recipe embodies that spirit, inviting you to explore Indonesia’s vibrant flavors right in your own kitchen.

References

• Indonesian Food & Cooking by Sri Owen
• Authentic Indonesian Recipes from the Ministry of Tourism