Oseng Tempe Kemangi: A Flavorful Tempe Stir-Fry with Basil
Oseng Tempe Kemangi is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully marries the earthy flavors of tempeh with the aromatic essence of fresh basil. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for those seeking a nutritious and flavorful vegetarian meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering stir-fry!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block (about 250g) |
| Curly green chili peppers | 3 to 5, adjust to taste |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili (optional) | To taste |
| Tamarind water | To taste (about 2 tablespoons) |
| Fresh basil (Kemangi) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Start by cutting the tempeh into small cubes. Heat a pan with a little oil over medium heat and fry the tempeh until it turns a lovely golden yellow, ensuring it’s crispy on the outside.
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Blend the Chilies: While the tempeh is frying, take the curly green chili peppers and, if you like it spicy, add some bird’s eye chilies. Blend them together until they form a coarse paste.
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Slice the Aromatics: Peel and slice the shallots and garlic thinly. This will add depth and sweetness to the dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the sliced shallots and garlic until they are fragrant and translucent.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the blended chili paste to the sautéed shallots and garlic. Stir well to combine, letting the spices release their aromas for a minute or so.
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Add the Tempeh: Gently incorporate the fried tempeh cubes into the pan. Pour in the tamarind water along with a bit of additional water to keep the dish moist. Season with salt and sugar to taste.
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Cook Down: Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and the flavors meld, usually about 5-10 minutes.
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Finish with Basil: Once the mixture is nearly dry, add the fresh basil leaves. Stir well to combine, allowing the heat to wilt the basil slightly without overcooking it.
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Serve: Remove from heat, and serve your Oseng Tempe Kemangi hot. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and is sure to delight both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Tips for the Perfect Oseng Tempe Kemangi
- Adjusting Spice Levels: The number of chili peppers can be adjusted based on your heat preference. Feel free to omit the bird’s eye chili if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil will enhance the aroma and flavor of this dish. If possible, use locally sourced basil for the best taste.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish can be served as a side dish or a main dish alongside a bowl of steamed rice. Pair it with other Indonesian dishes for a complete meal experience.
Enjoy this vibrant, simple, and delicious Oseng Tempe Kemangi that embodies the essence of Indonesian cooking. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the rich flavors and textures of tempeh, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire!
