Tempe Orek: A Flavorful Indonesian Tempeh Delight
Introduction
Tempe orek is a delightful Indonesian dish that showcases the rich, nutty flavor of tempeh, a traditional fermented soybean cake. This simple yet satisfying recipe combines tempeh with aromatic spices and seasonings, resulting in a savory dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice. Whether you’re looking to explore new flavors or seeking a vegetarian option, tempe orek is sure to please!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (sliced into cubes) | 1/2 papan (approximately 250g) |
| Red onions (sliced) | 3 bulbs |
| Garlic (sliced) | 2 cloves |
| Curly chilies (sliced diagonally) | 3 pieces |
| Galangal (crushed) | A small piece |
| Lemongrass (crushed) | 1 stalk |
| Kaffir lime leaves (remove the stem) | 3 leaves |
| Sweet soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
Instructions
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Fry the Tempeh: In a pan over medium heat, add a little oil and fry the tempeh cubes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the sliced red onions and garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent.
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Add the Chilies and Spices: Introduce the sliced curly chilies, crushed galangal, crushed lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves into the pan. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to release their aromatic oils.
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Combine Tempeh and Seasonings: Return the fried tempeh to the pan. Add the sweet soy sauce, soy sauce, salt, and sugar. Stir everything together, ensuring the tempeh is well-coated with the seasonings.
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Cook Until Flavors Meld: Let the mixture cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tempeh absorbs the flavors and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Enjoy tempe orek hot, served alongside steamed rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
Conclusion
Tempe orek is a flavorful and nutritious dish that highlights the versatility of tempeh in Indonesian cuisine. With its perfect blend of spices and savory sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and savoring this traditional recipe, which not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy, plant-based option for any meal.
