Tahu Gejrot is a beloved street food from Cirebon, Indonesia, featuring fried tofu drenched in a tangy, spicy sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe highlights the unique flavors of the region, making it an ultimate delight for any culinary enthusiast.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fried tofu (tahu pong/tahu cina) | 10 pieces |
| Tamarind | 1 tablespoon |
| Spice Paste: | |
| Red shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Brown sugar (finely grated) | ½ round (or 3 tablespoons if shredded) |
| Bird’s eye chili (adjust to taste) | 5 pieces |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Fried peanuts | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tofu: Start by soaking 1 tablespoon of tamarind in hot water, approximately 10-12 tablespoons, to create a tangy base for the sauce.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, coarsely grind the red shallots, garlic, brown sugar, bird’s eye chili, and salt until a fragrant paste forms. Gradually mix in the tamarind water (about 7 tablespoons, or to taste) and adjust according to your preference.
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Combine with Tofu: Once the flavors are balanced, add the fried tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces, into the mixture. Gently press down with the pestle or a spoon to allow the spice blend to infuse into the tofu.
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Serve: Your Tahu Gejrot is ready to be served! Enjoy this dish warm as a snack or a side dish, relishing the perfect balance of spice and tanginess.
Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Cirebon with this delightful Tahu Gejrot, a dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of Indonesian street food culture.