Tahu Bejek: A Flavorful Indonesian Tofu Dish
Tahu Bejek, a delightful Indonesian dish, transforms humble tofu into a flavorful feast that perfectly balances savory and spicy notes. With a medley of aromatic ingredients and the richness of eggs, this recipe is sure to impress. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide to creating this delicious dish, from preparation to plating.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium Tofu | 10 pieces |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Red Curly Chilies | 5 pieces (to taste) |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Chopped Green Onions | 4 leaves |
| Eggs | 1, beaten |
| Salt | To taste |
| Brown Sugar | To taste (optional) |
| Flavor Enhancer (optional) | To taste |
| Cooking Oil | As needed for sautéing |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-200 kcal |
| Protein | 10-12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10-15 g |
| Fat | 8-10 g |
| Fiber | 1-2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tofu
Start by washing the tofu thoroughly. Next, briefly boil the tofu for about 5 minutes. Once boiled, drain the tofu and gently crush it using a fork or your hands to achieve a coarse texture. This process is essential for allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors from the spices. -
-
Make the Spice Paste
In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, shallots, red chilies, salt, and the tomato. Blend until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. This aromatic paste is the heart of the dish, infusing it with robust flavors. -
Sauté the Spice Paste
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the pan and sauté until it releases a fragrant aroma, usually about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial, as it enhances the flavor profile of the dish. -
Combine Tofu with the Spices
Add the crushed tofu to the sautéed spice mixture. Stir well to ensure the tofu is evenly coated with the spices. Sprinkle in a bit of brown sugar if desired, as it balances the heat from the chilies and adds a touch of sweetness. -
Incorporate the Egg
Pour in the beaten egg and quickly mix it with the tofu and spices. The egg acts as a binding agent, transforming the texture of the dish from soft to a more cohesive and slightly drier consistency. Ensure that the egg is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. -
Finish with Green Onions
Just before removing the dish from the heat, fold in the chopped green onions for an added layer of flavor and a hint of freshness. Stir briefly to combine. -
Serve
Your Tahu Bejek is now ready to be served! This dish is best enjoyed warm, paired with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast.
Tips for Success
- Tofu Texture: For a firmer texture, you can use fried tofu instead of boiled tofu.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the number of chilies based on your heat preference.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with additional spices or vegetables to make this dish your own.
Tahu Bejek is not just a meal; it’s an experience that celebrates the flavors of Indonesia. Enjoy making and sharing this dish with family and friends, bringing a taste of Southeast Asia to your dining table!
