Tempe Orek: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (cut into cubes) | 1 block, approximately 30 x 20 cm |
| Shallots (finely chopped) | 4 |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 |
| Grilled shrimp paste (terasi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Large green chilies (roughly chopped) | 3 |
| Red chilies (sliced diagonally) | 2 |
| Green chilies (sliced diagonally) | 2 |
| Galangal (sliced) | 2 slices |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Palm sugar (roughly sliced) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sweet soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | to taste |
| Oil (for frying tempe) | as needed |
| Oil (for sautéing) | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempe: Begin by cutting the tempe into small cubes, and then heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the tempe cubes until they are half-cooked, allowing them to achieve a slight golden color. Once done, remove and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the finely chopped shallots and garlic until they are fragrant and translucent, infusing the oil with their aromatic flavors.
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Add Spices: To the sautéed mixture, add the sliced galangal and bay leaves, followed by the grilled shrimp paste (terasi). Stir the ingredients together, allowing them to meld.
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Incorporate Liquid: Pour in the water, stirring to combine, then add the fried tempe cubes along with the palm sugar and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer, reducing the liquid slightly until it thickens.
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Finish with Chilies and Soy Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, incorporate the large green chilies and sweet soy sauce into the pan. Stir well to ensure the tempe is evenly coated with the rich flavors.
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Add Final Touches: Just before serving, sprinkle in the sliced red and green chilies, allowing their vibrant color and fresh flavor to enhance the dish.
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Serve: Enjoy your Tempe Orek as a flavorful side dish alongside steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 220 |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
This Tempe Orek recipe beautifully combines the savory and slightly sweet notes of tempe with aromatic spices, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious taste of Indonesia right in your kitchen!
