Tempe Tahu Orek Basah: A Savory Indonesian Delight
Tempe Tahu Orek Basah is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the nutty flavors of tempeh with the soft texture of tofu, all infused with aromatic herbs and spices. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore authentic Indonesian flavors in a quick and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and nutritional insights for this delicious dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (cut into cubes) | 1/2 block (approximately 200 grams) |
| Firm tofu (cut into cubes) | 1 piece (approximately 200 grams) |
| Green chilies (sliced, optional) | 2 pieces (can be sliced round or diagonally) |
| Red chili (sliced) | 1 piece (adjust quantity as desired) |
| Shallots (sliced) | 4-5 cloves |
| Garlic (sliced) | 3-4 cloves (use more for extra aroma) |
| Bay leaves | 2 pieces |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2-5 pieces (adjust for desired aroma) |
| Palm sugar (or brown sugar) | To taste (about 2-3 tablespoons if liquid) |
| Tamarind water | 2 tablespoons |
| Galangal (smashed) | 1-2 pieces (about 1-2 inches) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Soy sauce | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempeh and Tofu: Begin by heating oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the cubed tempeh and tofu until they are golden brown. Once done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
-
-
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Sauté the sliced garlic and shallots until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the aromatic foundation of your dish.
-
Add the Spices: To the sautéed mixture, add the smashed galangal, bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and the sliced green and red chilies. Stir the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to meld for about 2-3 minutes.
-
Incorporate Sweet and Sour Elements: Add the tamarind water and palm sugar to the pan. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy.
-
Combine Ingredients: Gently add the fried tempeh and tofu into the pan, tossing everything together until well coated. Adjust the seasoning by adding soy sauce, salt, sugar, and pepper according to your taste preference.
-
Final Touches: If the mixture appears too dry, you can add a little water to achieve your desired consistency. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to infuse beautifully.
-
Taste and Serve: Before serving, conduct a final taste test and adjust seasoning as needed. Once satisfied, serve your Tempe Tahu Orek Basah warm, paired with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 |
| Protein | 14 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Fat | 14 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 600 mg (varies by soy sauce used) |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
Conclusion
Tempe Tahu Orek Basah is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of Indonesian cuisine that brings together wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a fantastic choice for those looking to explore plant-based dishes that do not compromise on taste. Enjoy this hearty meal with friends and family, and savor the rich tapestry of flavors it offers. Happy cooking! 🌟
