Ketoprak Tempe: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Ketoprak Tempe is a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the earthy flavors of tempeh with the nutty richness of peanut sauce. It is a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and incredibly delicious. This recipe showcases the essence of Ketoprak, with a delightful twist using tempeh, making it a wonderful option for vegetarian and health-conscious eaters alike. Let’s dive into the culinary journey of preparing this delightful dish, perfect for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lontong (compressed rice cake) | 1/2 (from 1 cup of rice) |
| Corn vermicelli | 1/4 package |
| Tempeh | 4 pieces |
| Peanut sauce (store-bought) | 5 tablespoons |
| Bird’s eye chili | 1 |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Lontong:
- Start by making the lontong, which is essential for this dish. For a healthier option, you can use a traditional ketupat (rice cake wrapped in coconut leaves).
- Rinse 1 cup of rice thoroughly and place it into a heatproof plastic bag. Fill the bag halfway and seal the top securely. Use a fork to poke several holes in the bag to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Boil a pot of water and submerge the bagged rice. Ensure the water level is always above the rice. Cook for 1 to 1.5 hours. Once cooked, remove from water, allow to cool, and then slice into bite-sized pieces.
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Prepare the Corn Vermicelli:
- Soak the corn vermicelli in hot water until it softens, typically taking about 10 minutes. For this recipe, you only need half of the soaked vermicelli, but feel free to soak the entire sheet if you have extra.
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Fry the Tempeh:
- Cut the tempeh into bite-sized pieces and marinate with crushed garlic, a pinch of salt, and a little water to enhance the flavor. Heat a non-stick frying pan and fry the tempeh until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, place the tempeh on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Make the Spicy Sauce:
- Wash the bird’s eye chili and garlic. Use a mortar and pestle or a food processor to grind them together. You don’t need to achieve a smooth paste; a coarse mixture is ideal for texture. Adjust the heat by adding more chili if desired.
- Mix the ground chili and garlic with the peanut sauce in a bowl. Gradually add water, stirring until you achieve a slightly thick and pourable consistency.
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Assemble the Dish:
- On a serving plate, arrange the sliced lontong, softened corn vermicelli, and crispy tempeh. Generously drizzle the spicy peanut sauce over the top.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Your Ketoprak Tempe is ready to be enjoyed! For an added crunch, serve with crispy crackers on the side. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Nutritional Information
While the nutritional information can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods, here’s a general idea of the nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Final Thoughts
Ketoprak Tempe is a vibrant dish that highlights the deliciousness of Indonesian cuisine while being easy to prepare in your kitchen. The combination of textures—from the soft lontong to the crunchy tempeh and the creamy peanut sauce—creates a meal that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for sharing with family or friends, this dish will surely impress anyone who tries it. So gather your ingredients and start cooking this delightful recipe for a taste of Indonesia right at home! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
