Spicy Crispy Tempe with Aromatic Indonesian Seasoning
Sambal Goreng Tempe Kering: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Sambal Goreng Tempe Kering is a traditional Indonesian dish that brings together the rich flavors of tempe, spices, and seasonings, resulting in a savory and slightly sweet delicacy. This dish is perfect as a side or as a main feature, showcasing the unique characteristics of tempe while highlighting the depth of Indonesian culinary traditions. Below is a detailed recipe to help you recreate this delightful dish in your kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (fermented soybean cake) | 500 grams |
| Lemongrass (serai), bruised | 1 stalk |
| Galangal (lengkuas), bruised | 1 piece |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 2 cloves |
| Large red chili, diagonally sliced | 1 piece |
| Sugar, to taste | to taste |
| Salt, to taste | to taste |
| Black pepper, to taste | to taste |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar (gula merah) | 2 tablespoons |
| Kaffir lime leaves (daun salam) | 2 leaves |
| Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus) | |
| Red onion | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Large red chilies | 5 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 5 pieces (adjust to taste) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempe: Begin by cutting the tempe into desired shapes, as depicted in the reference photo. Heat oil in a pan and fry the tempe until it is partially dry and lightly golden. Once cooked, remove from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Related Articles -
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the bruised galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, sliced red chili, and thinly sliced red onion. Sauté these ingredients until they release their fragrant aroma.
-
Add the Spice Paste: Once the aromatics are fragrant, incorporate the spice paste made from blending the red onions, garlic, large red chilies, and bird’s eye chilies until smooth. Stir well and cook for a few minutes until the paste is thoroughly cooked and fragrant.
-
Season the Mixture: Add in the sugar, salt, black pepper, sweet soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine all the flavors, allowing them to meld beautifully together.
-
Combine with Tempe: Gently add the fried tempe back into the pan. Toss the tempe in the spice mixture until it is well-coated. Keep the heat low and stir for a minute or two, allowing the tempe to absorb the flavors without overcooking.
-
Serve: Once well-mixed, turn off the heat. Transfer the Sambal Goreng Tempe Kering to a serving dish. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Nutritional Information
While precise nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods, here’s a general breakdown for one serving of Sambal Goreng Tempe Kering (assuming the recipe serves 4):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Sambal Goreng Tempe Kering is not only a delicious dish but also a fantastic source of plant-based protein and a wonderful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals. Serve it alongside steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast to truly savor the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia. Enjoy!



