Oblok Oblok Tempe Pare
Discover the delightful flavors of Oblok Oblok Tempe Pare, a traditional Indonesian dish that combines the unique bitterness of bitter melon (pare) with the savory goodness of tempeh and fresh coconut. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Follow this detailed recipe to create a comforting and flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bitter melon (pare) | 1 large |
| Tempeh | 1 piece |
| Young coconut | 1/4 piece |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili | 4 pieces |
| Candlenut | 1 piece |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf |
| Water | 500 ml |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer (optional) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | Variable, based on added salt |
| Sugars | Variable, based on added sugar |
Instructions
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Prepare the Bitter Melon: Begin by cutting the bitter melon in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the seeds and scoop out the insides, then slice the melon thinly. Rinse the slices thoroughly to remove excess bitterness. After rinsing, sprinkle with salt and let sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps reduce the bitterness even further. Afterward, pour boiling water over the bitter melon slices and allow them to rest for a few minutes before draining.
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Prepare the Tempeh: Divide the tempeh into two portions: one quarter and three quarters. The smaller piece (1/4) should be boiled in water until it is just cooked but not overly soft. The larger portion (3/4) should be cut into small cubes.
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Grate the Coconut: Using a grater, finely shred the young coconut. This will add a rich, creamy texture to the dish.
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Mash the Cooked Tempeh: Once the boiled tempeh has cooled slightly, mash it with a fork or potato masher until it becomes a coarse paste.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle or food processor, blend the shallots, garlic, candlenut, and bird’s eye chili until they form a smooth paste. This aromatic mix will infuse the dish with robust flavors.
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Cook the Spices: In a frying pan or skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and bay leaf, sautéing until fragrant and lightly golden.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the water and add the mashed tempeh and grated coconut to the pan. Stir well to combine.
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Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in salt, sugar, and the optional flavor enhancer according to your taste preferences. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated.
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Add the Bitter Melon and Tempeh Cubes: Gently fold in the prepared bitter melon slices and the cubed tempeh into the mixture. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bitter melon is tender but still retains some crunch.
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Final Adjustments: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer, you can also add fried anchovies for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
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Serve: Once everything is well-cooked and the flavors meld together beautifully, remove from heat and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Oblok Oblok Tempe Pare
- For those who are sensitive to the bitterness of pare, soaking the slices in salted water for a longer duration can enhance the flavor and reduce the bitter taste.
- Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by varying the number of bird’s eye chilies used according to your taste.
- Adding other vegetables, such as carrots or spinach, can make this dish even more nutritious and colorful.
Experience the blend of flavors in Oblok Oblok Tempe Pare, a comforting dish that captures the essence of Indonesian cooking. With its rich textures and aromatic spices, it’s a perfect dish to share with loved ones, showcasing the love that is made visible through culinary creations. Enjoy this delightful recipe as a staple in your kitchen!
