Bacem Tahu Tempe: A Delicious Indonesian Delicacy
Bacem Tahu Tempe is a beloved Indonesian dish that showcases the rich flavors of marinated tofu and tempeh, slowly simmered to perfection and then fried until golden brown. The combination of spices, sweet palm sugar, and soy sauce brings an aromatic depth to the dish, making it a delightful addition to any meal. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps that will make this traditional dish shine on your table.
Ingredients
Here is a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to prepare Bacem Tahu Tempe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1/2 papan (about 250g) |
| Tofu | 1 pack (contains 10) |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 8 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 8 cloves |
| Coriander seeds (ketumbar) | 1/2 packet (about 5g) |
| Salt (garam) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 5 leaves |
| Lemongrass (sereh) | 1 stalk |
| Galangal (lengkoas) | 1 small piece |
| Palm sugar (gula merah) | 3 bundles (about 200g) |
| Granulated sugar (gula pasir) | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce (kecap bango) | 1 packet |
| Water | As needed |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Bacem Tahu Tempe:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering and washing all the ingredients to ensure they are clean and ready for cooking. -
Boil the Water:
In a large pot, pour enough water to cover the tofu and tempeh. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. -
Make the Spice Paste:
In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, and salt together until you form a fine paste. Crush the galangal and lemongrass lightly to release their flavors, then add them to the mixture along with the bay leaves. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Once the water is boiling, add the prepared spice paste to the pot, stirring well to combine. -
Add the Sweetness:
Introduce the palm sugar into the boiling mixture, stirring until it dissolves completely. -
Prepare the Tofu and Tempeh:
Rinse the tofu and cut it into thick slices. Slice the tempeh according to your preference (thin or thick), and then add both to the boiling broth. Ensure they are well submerged. -
Flavoring the Dish:
Sprinkle the granulated sugar and pour in the soy sauce, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly. -
Simmer:
Allow the dish to simmer on low heat, covering the pot with a lid. Cook until the liquid has reduced significantly, concentrating the flavors. This process usually takes about 30 minutes. -
Fry the Bacem:
After the simmering process, carefully lift the tofu and tempeh from the pot and set them aside. Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a separate frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu and tempeh, frying them until they achieve a deep brown color and crispy texture, about 5-7 minutes. -
Drain and Serve:
Once fried to perfection, remove the Bacem Tahu Tempe from the pan and let it drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil. -
Enjoy:
Serve your Bacem Tahu Tempe hot, accompanied by steamed rice and your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with sautéed bitter melon and anchovies for a sweet and savory combination. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of this traditional Indonesian delicacy!
Tips for the Perfect Bacem Tahu Tempe
- Choosing Tofu and Tempeh: Opt for firm tofu and fresh tempeh for the best texture.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of palm sugar based on your taste preference; some like it sweeter!
- Marination Time: If you have time, allow the tofu and tempeh to marinate for a few hours or overnight in the spice mixture for even deeper flavor.
Bacem Tahu Tempe is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of Indonesian culinary heritage, bringing families together with its mouthwatering taste and aroma. Enjoy this delicious treat and share the love!
