Botok Tempe Cumi: A Delightful Indonesian Dish
Botok Tempe Cumi is a unique Indonesian dish that combines fresh squid, tempeh, and a medley of aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that celebrates the flavors of the sea and the earth. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or simply a cozy dinner at home, bringing together wholesome ingredients that are both nutritious and satisfying. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide on how to prepare this delectable dish, including ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
Here’s a complete list of the ingredients you will need to prepare Botok Tempe Cumi:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large squid (cumi) | 3 pieces |
| Tempeh (fermented soybean cake) | 1/2 block |
| Tofu | 1 box |
| Grated coconut | Adjust to family size |
| Salted fish (ikan asin) | 3 pieces |
| Petai cina (lamtoro) | To taste |
| Tomatoes | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
| For the spice paste: | |
| Green chilies (cabe hijau) | To taste |
| Red onions (bawang merah) | To taste |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | To taste |
| Turmeric (kunyit) | To taste |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | To taste |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk) | To taste |
| Coriander (ketumbar) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer (penyedap rasa) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Total Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugars | 3g | – |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
*Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Clean the squid thoroughly and cut them into manageable pieces. Next, slice the tempeh and tofu into bite-sized cubes. Prepare the vegetables by slicing the green chilies and tomatoes. You may want to adjust the amounts of each ingredient based on your family size or preferences. -
Make the Spice Paste
In a blender or food processor, combine the green chilies, red onions, garlic, turmeric, kencur, and coriander. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary to help the mixture blend well. This spice paste will provide the essential flavor base for your Botok Tempe Cumi. -
Sauté the Spice Paste
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop fully. -
Add the Fillings
Next, add the cubed tempeh and tofu to the pan. Sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes until the tempeh and tofu are slightly browned and infused with the spice mixture. Then, add in the salted fish and continue to cook until everything is half-cooked and aromatic. -
Incorporate the Grated Coconut
Once the fillings are well-mixed and fragrant, add the grated coconut. Stir everything together until the coconut is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Make sure to mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well-combined. -
Add Water for Steaming
Don’t forget to add a little water to the pan, which will help the spices permeate the ingredients fully and keep them moist during cooking. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. -
Prepare for Steaming
Transfer the mixture into banana leaves or a steaming dish. If using banana leaves, fold them into a packet, sealing in the mixture. If using a steaming dish, simply spread the mixture evenly. -
Steam the Botok
Set up a steamer pot with boiling water and place the packets or dish inside. Cover and steam for approximately 30-40 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once steamed to perfection, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Botok Tempe Cumi is best enjoyed with steamed rice, fresh vegetables, or as a side dish in a traditional Indonesian meal. Enjoy the explosion of flavors with every bite!
Conclusion
Botok Tempe Cumi is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of Indonesian cuisine with its rich flavors and textures. The combination of seafood, legumes, and spices makes it not only delicious but also nourishing. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on personal preferences and availability. Serve it at your next family gathering or special occasion, and let everyone savor the unique taste of Botok Tempe Cumi. Enjoy your cooking journey, and may every bite bring joy and satisfaction!
