Tumis Udang Tempe Kacang Panjang Recipe

Introduction

Delve into the vibrant tapestry of Indonesian culinary traditions with the authentic and flavorful dish known as Tumis Udang Tempe Kacang Panjang. This stir-fry exemplifies Indonesia’s rich use of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and balanced textures. The dish combines succulent shrimp (udang), hearty tempeh (fermented soybean cake), and crisp long beans (kacang panjang), all sautéed with aromatic garlic, onions, fiery bird’s eye chilies, and seasoned with a mixture of savory sauces. Perfectly suited for quick weeknight dinners or leisurely weekend gatherings, this dish offers a harmonious blend of umami, sweetness, spice, and freshness. Served steaming hot alongside fluffy rice, it provides a complete, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Indonesian home cooking. As featured on Love With Recipes — your trusted platform for diverse, authentic recipes — this dish invites you to explore the vibrant flavors and techniques that make Indonesian cuisine so beloved worldwide.

Time

Total preparation and cooking time: approximately 30 minutes

• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large wok or deep frying pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Cooking spatula or wooden spoon
• Slotted spoon for frying
• Small bowl for sauces and seasonings
• Plate lined with paper towels for draining fried tempeh
• Stove with adjustable heat controls

Tags

Indonesian cuisine, stir-fry, seafood, vegetarian protein, quick dinner, authentic recipe, flavorful, spicy, healthy

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 2 to 3 servings, depending on portion sizes. It can be easily doubled or halved to suit your needs for family dinners or intimate gatherings.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate: Requires basic stir-fry skills, familiarity with handling seafood and frying tempeh, and seasoning adjustments.

Allergen Information

This dish contains:

• Soy (tempeh and sauces)
• Shrimp (shellfish)
• Possible traces of gluten if soy sauces contain wheat (check labels)

Individuals with allergies to shellfish or soy should avoid or modify this recipe accordingly.

Dietary Preference

Suitable for pescatarians and those seeking a high-protein, balanced meal. Not vegan due to shrimp and tempeh, but can be adapted by substituting shrimp with tofu and using vegan sauces.

Course

Main course, Stir-fry, Indonesian dish

Cuisine

Indonesian

Ingredients

Ingredient Breakdown

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation of Ingredients

Begin by meticulously preparing all ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut the tempeh into small, uniform cubes—about 1-inch pieces—so they fry evenly and develop a crispy exterior. Rinse the tempeh under cold water if it’s packaged in a vacuum-sealed bag, then pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispiness during frying.

Peel and clean the shrimp thoroughly, removing any shells and veins if present. Rinse under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels. For larger shrimp, you may leave the tails on for presentation or remove them based on preference.

Slice the garlic thinly to maximize flavor release. Cut the onion into thin slices; this allows for quick sautéing and enhances the aromatic profile. Cut the green onion in half lengthwise, then into 2-inch segments, which adds freshness and a mild onion flavor to the dish.

Slice the bird’s eye chilies thinly, adjusting the amount based on your tolerance for heat. Remember, the small size of these chilies packs a fiery punch, so start with fewer if you prefer milder spice levels.

Wash the long beans thoroughly under cold water, trim the ends, and cut into 2-3 inch sections. This length is ideal for bite-sized pieces that cook evenly and are easy to handle.

Step 2: Heating the Oil

Select a large wok or deep frying pan, preferably non-stick or seasoned to prevent sticking. Pour enough vegetable or canola oil into the pan to submerge the tempeh pieces comfortably—about 1.5 to 2 cups, depending on the size of your pan. Heat the oil over medium heat, allowing it to reach approximately 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, insert a small piece of tempeh or a wooden chopstick; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 3: Frying the Tempeh

Carefully add the tempeh cubes into the hot oil, maintaining a gentle stir to prevent sticking. Fry the tempeh, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy—about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tempeh from the oil, draining excess oil on paper towels. Proper frying ensures a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables and shrimp.

Step 4: Sautéing Aromatics

In the same oil, add the sliced garlic and onion. Sauté over medium heat for approximately 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The onions should become translucent, and the garlic should release its aroma, signaling that the base flavor is well-developed. Be attentive during this stage, as garlic burns quickly and turns bitter if overcooked.

Step 5: Adding Vegetables and Chilies

Introduce the sliced bird’s eye chilies and green onions into the pan. Stir for about 1 minute, allowing the chilies to release their fiery aroma and the green onions to soften slightly. This combination infuses the oil with spicy and fresh notes, elevating the dish’s flavor profile.

Step 6: Cooking the Shrimp

Add the cleaned shrimp to the aromatics. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, which takes approximately 2-3 minutes. Do not overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if cooked too long. The quick cooking time preserves the shrimp’s succulence and ensures they remain tender.

Step 7: Combining Ingredients

Gently fold in the fried tempeh and long beans. Use a spatula to combine all ingredients thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring regularly to ensure even distribution. During this step, the vegetables begin to soften while retaining some crunch, and the tempeh absorbs the savory flavors.

Step 8: Seasoning the Dish

Pour in the oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce, and tomato sauce. Add a pinch of salt and sugar to balance the flavors, adjusting according to your taste preferences. Stir well to coat all ingredients with the sauce mixture. Continue cooking for about 1 minute to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and adhere uniformly to the ingredients.

Step 9: Final Taste Adjustment and Serving

Take a moment to taste the stir-fry. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or sugar if necessary to achieve a harmonious balance of salty, sweet, and spicy notes. Once satisfied, remove from heat. Serve hot over steamed white rice, ensuring each plate gets a generous portion of the flavorful stir-fry, complemented by the rice’s neutral base.

Preparation Tips

• Ingredient freshness: Always use fresh shrimp and vegetables for optimal flavor and texture.
• Tempeh preparation: For extra crispiness, marinate tempeh briefly in a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar before frying.
• Oil temperature: Maintain consistent medium heat during frying to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Sauce balancing: Taste and adjust sauces and seasonings at the end to suit personal preferences.
• Spice control: Modify bird’s eye chili quantities to suit your heat tolerance, or substitute with milder chilies if desired.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Tempeh texture: For extra flavor, pan-fry tempeh until crispy and then toss in a little soy sauce or kecap manis before adding to the stir-fry.
• Enhancing flavor: Incorporate a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving for added freshness and texture.
• Vegetables variation: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or bok choy for variety.
• Sauce consistency: To thicken the sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water) during the final stir for a glossy finish.

Add-ons

• Freshly chopped cilantro or Thai basil for garnishing
• Crushed peanuts or fried shallots for crunch
• Extra chili slices for more heat

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Indonesian acar (pickled vegetables)
• Sambal oelek or other chili condiments
• Grilled satay skewers for added protein

Improvements

• Use dried shrimp or shrimp paste for a deeper umami flavor.
• Replace oyster sauce with vegetarian mushroom sauce for vegan adaptations.
• Incorporate a splash of coconut milk during cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Experiment with different chili types to customize heat levels and flavor nuances.

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 in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain texture. For best results, reheat promptly to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery and vegetables from losing their crunch.

If you wish to prepare this dish in advance, consider frying the tempeh separately and adding it fresh during reheating to preserve crispiness.

FAQ

Can I substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu?

Yes, for non-seafood options, diced chicken breast or firm tofu can be used. Adjust cooking times accordingly — chicken will need to be cooked through, and tofu should be pan-fried until golden before adding.

Is this dish spicy?

The spiciness depends on the amount of bird’s eye chilies used. You can reduce or omit the chilies for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. Replace shrimp with extra tofu or tempeh, and use vegan soy sauces and sauces without animal derivatives. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Conclusion

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Indonesia with this Tumis Udang Tempe Kacang Panjang stir-fry, a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that celebrates fresh ingredients and bold seasoning. Whether served as a quick weeknight meal or a special dish for guests, it promises a culinary journey that excites the palate and satisfies the soul. The versatility of this recipe allows for numerous adaptations, making it a staple in your repertoire of Asian-inspired dishes. Remember to experiment with different vegetables, sauces, and spice levels to craft a personalized version that fits your taste. As always, love and passion in cooking elevate every meal, and this dish is no exception. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!

References

• Indonesian Food & Cooking by Sri Owen
• Authentic Indonesian Recipes, Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy