Orek Tempe Mantap: A Flavorful Indonesian Stir-Fry
Orek Tempe Mantap is a delightful and simple Indonesian dish that showcases tempe, a staple fermented soybean product known for its rich flavor and nutritional value. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore traditional Indonesian flavors while enjoying a healthy and satisfying meal. With its aromatic ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious Orek Tempe Mantap!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh tempe | 300 grams | Preferably bought from a traditional market |
| Red shallots | 2 pieces | Finely sliced |
| Garlic | 1 large clove | Finely chopped |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf | Adds aroma and flavor |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk | Bruised to release flavor |
| Galangal | 1 finger-length piece | Bruised to release flavor |
| Red chili | 1 piece | Sliced, adjust according to your spice preference |
| Bird’s eye chili | 3 pieces | Sliced, adjust according to your spice preference |
| Shrimp paste (optional) | A pinch | Can be omitted |
| Sweet soy sauce | To taste | Adjust according to your preference |
| Salt | To taste | Enhance the flavors |
| Sugar | To taste | Balances the dish |
| Seasoning powder (Royco/Masako) | A pinch | Optional, for added flavor |
Instructions
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Preparation of Tempe: Begin by cutting the fresh tempe into cubes according to your preference. This can be small or medium-sized, depending on your liking.
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Frying the Tempe: Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed tempe and fry until they are half-cooked and lightly golden. Remove from the oil and set aside.
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Aromatic Base: In the same pan, using the residual oil, sauté the sliced red shallots and garlic over medium heat until they are fragrant and golden brown. This will serve as the aromatic base for your dish.
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Adding the Herbs: Next, introduce the bay leaf, bruised lemongrass, and galangal to the pan. If you are using shrimp paste, add it now to enhance the umami flavor of the dish. Sauté for an additional minute to release the flavors of the herbs.
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Combining Ingredients: Now, return the fried tempe to the pan. Stir in the sliced red chili and bird’s eye chili. This is where the dish gets its heat, so adjust the quantity according to your spice tolerance.
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Seasoning the Dish: Drizzle in sweet soy sauce, and sprinkle salt and sugar to taste. If you prefer, add a pinch of seasoning powder for additional flavor. Stir everything together to ensure the tempe is well-coated with the seasoning.
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Cooking to Perfection: Allow the mixture to cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soy sauce is absorbed, and all the flavors meld beautifully together.
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Serving Suggestion: Once cooked, transfer your Orek Tempe Mantap to a serving dish. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Enjoying Orek Tempe Mantap
This Orek Tempe Mantap is a fantastic way to savor the unique flavors of Indonesian cuisine while also enjoying the health benefits of tempe. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Don’t forget to share your recreation of this dish with friends and family; it’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy the delightful taste and aroma of this traditional Indonesian favorite. Happy cooking!
