Savory Tahu Pepes: Spicy Indonesian Tofu Parcels

Modern Tahu Pepes: A Delightful Indonesian Delicacy

Ingredients:

• 2 Chinese tofu blocks (or any white tofu of your choice, finely mashed with a fork)
• 3 stalks of green onions (sliced, about 1-inch pieces)
• 2 large eggs
• Bay leaves (to be added into each parcel during wrapping)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon seasoning powder (optional, adjust to taste)

For the Spice Paste:

• 10 Java bird’s eye chilies (or adjust based on desired heat level)
• 1 tablespoon terasi ABC (shrimp paste)
• 5 shallots
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 stalks lemongrass (thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons oil (for sautéing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tofu Mixture:

   • In a large bowl, mash the tofu thoroughly with a fork. Add the beaten eggs and sliced green onions. Mix well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender, combine the bird’s eye chilies, terasi, shallots, garlic, and lemongrass. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant and well-cooked. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Allow the paste to cool before mixing it with the tofu mixture.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Once the spice paste has cooled, mix it into the mashed tofu along with the granulated sugar. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and seasoning powder as desired.

4. Wrap the Pepes:

   • Cut banana leaves into squares or use parchment paper if banana leaves are unavailable. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the tofu mixture in the center of each leaf square. Add a bay leaf on top of the tofu mixture.
   • Fold the banana leaf over the filling to form a parcel and secure with toothpicks or string.

5. Steam the Pepes:

   • Arrange the wrapped parcels in a steamer basket. Steam over boiling water for 30 minutes.

6. Serve:

   • Once cooked, serve the pepes warm with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes.

Notes:

• Preparing Spice Paste in Advance: You can make the spice paste ahead of time and store it for convenience. This allows you to quickly prepare different variations of pepes by simply adding it to the base ingredients.
• Variations: For a variation, such as pepes ayam (chicken pepes), incorporate finely minced ginger, kaffir lime leaves, and chopped tomatoes into the mixture. Add 2 teaspoons of fish sauce for additional flavor.

Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful experience of modern Tahu Pepes, a traditional Indonesian dish with a contemporary twist!