Savory Spiced Chicken Liver and Tofu Stew (Ati Ampela n Tahu)
A Delightful Fusion of Flavors
This traditional Indonesian dish, known as “Ati Ampela n Tahu,” features tender chicken livers and tofu simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce. With a blend of fragrant spices and a touch of sweetness, itโs a delightful meal that can be enjoyed with steamed rice. Whether you love a hint of heat or prefer a milder flavor, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken livers (ati ampela) | 5 pieces |
| Tofu | 200 grams |
| Bay leaves | 3 leaves |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Seasoning (penyedap) | To taste |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 2 tablespoons |
| Coconut milk (santan) | 200 ml |
For the Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5 pieces |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 3 cloves |
| Coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 3 pieces |
| Black pepper (lada) | ยฝ teaspoon |
| Kencur (aromatic root) | 1 small piece |
| Birdโs eye chilies | 5 pieces (adjust to taste) |
| Red chilies | 3 pieces |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cleaning the chicken livers thoroughly and cutting the tofu into cubes. Set them aside for later use.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar and pestle, combine shallots, garlic, coriander, candlenuts, black pepper, kencur, bird’s eye chilies, and red chilies. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Sautรฉ the Aromatics: In a large pan or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste along with the bay leaves, and sautรฉ until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
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Add Liquid: Pour in enough water to cover the spice mixture and bring it to a boil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes.
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Incorporate Coconut Milk: Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat and stir in the coconut milk. Mix well to combine all flavors.
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Cook the Main Ingredients: Add the chicken livers, tofu, sweet soy sauce, sugar, salt, and any additional seasoning as desired. Stir gently to ensure the livers and tofu are well coated with the sauce.
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Simmer for Flavor: Let the stew simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Final Touch: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more chilies at this stage. If youโre aiming for a milder flavor, you can skip the extra chilies.
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Serve: Once the livers are cooked through and tender, and the sauce has reduced slightly, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy the rich flavors of this delightful dish.
Tips:
- For those who prefer a less spicy dish, you can omit the birdโs eye chilies. If you enjoy a sweeter kick, feel free to add more sweet soy sauce.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or sautรฉed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Conclusion
Indulging in this savory spiced chicken liver and tofu stew not only offers a taste of authentic Indonesian cuisine but also warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a deliciously rich and comforting meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the simplicity of preparing this delightful recipe that brings love and warmth to every bite!
