Soun Tempe Kecap: A Flavorful Indonesian Noodle Dish
Soun Tempe Kecap is a delightful Indonesian dish that marries the chewy texture of soun (bean thread noodles) with the savory richness of tempeh and a medley of aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, and it’s easy to prepare with just a few key ingredients.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bean thread noodles (soun) | 1 packet (approximately 100g) |
| Tempeh | 1/3 block (approximately 100g) |
| Red shallots | 3 pieces |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Bird’s eye chili | 2 pieces |
| Red chili | 2 pieces |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Soun: Begin by soaking the bean thread noodles in warm water. It’s important not to use boiling water, as this can cause the noodles to break apart. Instead, soak them until they are softened but not mushy—this usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Once softened, drain the noodles and cut them into manageable pieces.
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Chop the Ingredients: While the noodles are soaking, prepare the other ingredients. Slice the red shallots and garlic thinly. Next, cut the tempeh into small cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size. For the chilies, you can adjust the quantity based on your spice preference—remove the seeds if you prefer a milder flavor.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant and translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Cook the Tempeh: Once the aromatics are ready, add the cubed tempeh to the skillet. Stir-fry the tempeh until it starts to brown slightly, about 4-5 minutes.
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Add Seasonings: Incorporate the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), salt, and broth into the pan. Stir well to ensure the tempeh is evenly coated in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a little water to create a light sauce. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Combine with Soun: Once the tempeh is well-seasoned and the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency, add the soaked and cut soun to the skillet. Gently toss the noodles with the tempeh mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or kecap manis to suit your palate.
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Serve: Once everything is heated through and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Soun Tempe Kecap to a serving dish and enjoy hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or as a standalone meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
Conclusion
Soun Tempe Kecap is not only a delicious dish but also a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your diet with the nutritious tempeh. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds while keeping preparation simple and enjoyable. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful Indonesian classic!
