Tempe Bacem: A Delicious Indonesian Delight
Introduction
Tempe Bacem is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases tempeh, a fermented soybean product that’s rich in protein and flavor. This dish is characterized by its sweet and savory profile, achieved through the use of palm sugar, spices, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly cooked, Tempe Bacem makes for a delightful accompaniment to rice and other Indonesian dishes, adding both nutrition and taste to your meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through creating this delectable dish step by step.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (tempe) | 1 block, cut to taste |
| Palm sugar (gula merah) | 2 pieces, finely shredded |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 2 leaves |
| Granulated sugar (optional) | To taste |
| Water or coconut water | As needed |
| Ground spices | |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 4 cloves |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 3 pieces |
| Coriander seeds (ketumbar) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt (garam) | To taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh and Spice Mixture
Begin by combining the tempeh with the ground spices. In a blender or food processor, blend the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, coriander seeds, and salt into a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture is essential for infusing flavor into the tempeh.
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Incorporate Aromatics
Add the finely shredded palm sugar and bay leaves to the tempeh. Gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring that the tempeh is evenly coated with the spice mixture. -
Add Liquid and Cook
Pour in enough water or coconut water to cover the tempeh partially. This will help the flavors meld together as it cooks. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. -
Cook to Perfection
Allow the tempeh to cook until it is tender and the liquid has reduced, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial as it allows the tempeh to absorb the flavors of the spices and sweetness of the sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. -
Serve Warm
Once the tempeh is cooked through and the liquid has mostly evaporated, remove it from the heat. Serve the Tempe Bacem warm as a side dish alongside steamed rice, fresh vegetables, or as part of a larger Indonesian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Conclusion
Tempe Bacem is not just a dish; it’s a reflection of Indonesian culinary traditions that blend rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. This recipe is easy to follow and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful dish with family and friends, and bring a taste of Indonesia into your kitchen!
