Savory Shrimp-Stuffed Pempek with Spicy Tamarind Broth

Pempek Udang Rebon with Egg Filling

Ingredients:

For Pempek:

• 1/2 kg Sago
• 1/4 kg All-purpose flour
• Dried shrimp (udang rebon), as needed
• Flavor enhancer (recommended: magic seasoning)
• Hot water
• 3 Eggs
• Fresh yellow noodles (mie kuning basah)
• Cucumber, for serving

For the Sauce:

• Dried shrimp or ebi
• 30 Red bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 6-8 Medium-sized garlic cloves
• Tamarind, a small amount
• Vinegar, to taste
• Palm sugar, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Flavor enhancer (optional)
• Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • Finely grind the dried shrimp.
   • Prepare a scrambled egg with a pinch of salt and flavor enhancer. Once cooked, cut the egg into pieces as desired.

2. Make the Pempek Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the sago, all-purpose flour, finely ground dried shrimp, and flavor enhancer. Mix well.
   • Gradually add hot water to the mixture, stirring continuously until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Be careful not to add too much water; the dough should be firm but not too wet.

3. Form and Cook Pempek:

   • Shape the dough into small oval pieces and stuff each with a portion of the scrambled egg. Seal the edges well.
   • Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the pempek pieces. Cook until they float to the surface. Remove and set aside.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Blend the red chilies, garlic, and dried shrimp until smooth.
   • In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the blended mixture and cook for a few minutes.
   • Season with tamarind, palm sugar, vinegar, salt, and flavor enhancer. Adjust the seasoning to taste and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Serving:

   • You can store the cooked pempek in the refrigerator and fry them when needed. The sauce can also be refrigerated and reheated before serving.
   • Serve the pempek with slices of cucumber and the spicy sauce on the side.

Note: For a milder sauce, substitute the bird’s eye chilies with regular red chilies and prepare a separate chili sambal if desired.

Enjoy this traditional Indonesian delight with your family and friends, savoring the unique flavors and textures of this beloved dish!