Tempe & Tahu Bacem: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Introduction
Tempe & Tahu Bacem is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the rich, nutty flavors of tempeh and the soft texture of tofu, all bathed in a sweet and savory marinade. This traditional recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a wonderful balance of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Perfect as a main or side dish, Tempe & Tahu Bacem can be enjoyed with steamed rice and a variety of vegetable accompaniments. Let’s explore this mouthwatering recipe in detail!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 1 block (cut into 6 pieces) |
| Tahu (tofu) | 1 block |
| Water | 1/2 liter |
| Daun salam (bay leaves) | 2 pieces |
| Kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) | 5 tablespoons |
| Gula merah sisir (grated palm sugar) | 5 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Ground Spices: | |
| Bawang merah (red onion) | 5 pieces |
| Bawang putih (garlic) | 3 cloves |
| Ketumbar (coriander seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Minyak goreng (cooking oil) | as needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade: In a large pot or skillet, combine the tempeh, tofu, water, daun salam, kecap manis, gula merah, and the ground spices. Ensure the ground spices are finely blended for an even distribution of flavor.
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Cook the Mixture: Heat the pot over medium heat and allow the mixture to simmer. Stir gently to prevent sticking, and cook until the liquid reduces and the spices are absorbed by the tempeh and tofu, approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Fry the Tempeh and Tofu: Once the mixture is well-marinated and has thickened, carefully remove the tempeh and tofu from the pot. In a separate frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Fry the marinated tempeh and tofu until they turn golden brown, ensuring each side is crispy.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the tempeh and tofu from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve hot, accompanied by steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Conclusion
Tempe & Tahu Bacem is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine. With its sweet and savory notes, this dish offers a perfect introduction to tempeh and tofu for those new to these ingredients. Whether you are serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it as a weekday meal, Tempe & Tahu Bacem is sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
