Tempe Bacem: A Delightful Indonesian Dish
Tempe Bacem is a beloved Indonesian dish that beautifully showcases the rich, nutty flavors of tempeh, a traditional soy product. Marinated and simmered to perfection, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Below is the detailed recipe for creating this flavorful dish, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (papan tempe) | 1 block |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 10 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 4 cloves |
| Coriander (ketumbar) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric (kunyit) | A thumb-sized piece |
| Ginger (jahe) | A thumb-sized piece |
| Galangal (lengkuas) | A thumb-sized piece |
| Palm sugar (gula merah) | 3 pieces |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 3 tablespoons |
| Pepper (lada) | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 2 leaves |
| Lemongrass (sereh) | 1 stalk |
| Salt (garam) | 2 teaspoons |
| Water | Enough to cover tempeh |
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by grinding the shallots, garlic, turmeric, coriander, ginger, and galangal into a smooth paste. You can use a mortar and pestle or a food processor for this step.
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Arrange the Tempeh: In a pot, arrange the tempeh neatly at the bottom.
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Add the Spice Paste: Spread the ground spice mixture evenly over the tempeh.
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Add Water: Pour enough water into the pot to cover the tempeh completely. This ensures that the flavors infuse thoroughly during cooking.
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Cooking: Place the pot on medium heat. As the mixture begins to simmer, add the palm sugar, salt, pepper, bay leaves, and lemongrass. Stir gently to combine.
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Final Touches: Once the water is nearly absorbed, stir in the sweet soy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, ensuring a balance of sweet and savory.
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Serving: Once the tempeh is tender and flavorful, remove it from heat. Tempe Bacem can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent addition to rice dishes or as a standalone snack.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 8g |
Tempe Bacem is not only a delightful dish but also a fantastic source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to explore Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy this savory treat with a side of rice or as a flavorful addition to salads and wraps. Happy cooking!
