Spicy Fermented Tempeh Sambal: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Sambel Tempe Busuk
Discover the unique and savory flavors of Sambel Tempe Busuk, a traditional Indonesian dish that beautifully highlights the rich and aromatic qualities of fermented tempeh. This recipe marries the earthy notes of tempeh with a spicy, fragrant sambal, creating a delightful accompaniment to rice or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fermented Tempeh | 1 board (papan) |
| Coconut Milk (Santan) | 200 ml |
| Water | 100 ml |
| Red Bird’s Eye Chilies | 11 pieces |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Shallots | 2 pieces |
| Ground Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| MSG (optional) | A pinch |
| Sugar | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by boiling the fermented tempeh until all the water has evaporated. Once done, remove from heat and mash the tempeh until it reaches a smooth consistency.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, grind together the red chilies, garlic, shallots, and ground pepper to form a fine spice paste.
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Cook the Spice Paste: In a pan, heat 50 ml of coconut milk over medium heat. Once the coconut milk is warm, add the freshly ground spice paste. Sauté the mixture until it becomes aromatic and fragrant.
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Combine the Ingredients: Add the mashed tempeh into the pan with the sautéed spices, stirring well to combine. Cook for a few minutes until the tempeh is heated through.
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Simmer with Coconut Milk: Gradually add the remaining coconut milk to the pan, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens, adjusting the seasoning with a pinch of sugar, salt, and MSG (if using) to taste.
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Serve: Once the sambal has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Transfer the Sambel Tempe Busuk to a serving dish and enjoy it warm as a delightful side with steamed rice or as part of a traditional Indonesian feast.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fats | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Enjoy the unique taste of Sambel Tempe Busuk, a dish that not only embodies the flavors of Indonesia but also serves as a reminder of the beauty of using traditional ingredients in modern cooking. Perfect for anyone looking to expand their culinary repertoire with bold and exciting flavors!



