Tahu Balado: Spicy Indonesian Fried Tofu
Description:
Tahu Balado is a delightful Indonesian dish that combines crispy fried tofu with a vibrant and spicy sauce made from shallots, garlic, red chilies, and tomatoes. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also showcases the bold flavors typical of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, it is sure to please anyone looking for an authentic taste of Indonesia.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Firm tofu (Tahu Putih) | 4 pieces |
| Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 3 cloves |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 2 cloves |
| Red chilies (Cabai Merah) | 4 pieces |
| Medium-sized tomato | 1 piece |
| Salt | to taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Instructions
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Preparation of Tofu:
- Begin by washing the tofu pieces thoroughly to remove any impurities. After washing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
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-
Frying the Tofu:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cubed tofu to the pan. Fry the tofu until it turns golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Making the Spice Paste:
- While the tofu is frying, prepare the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, red chilies, and the medium-sized tomato. Blend the ingredients until smooth, creating a vibrant red paste.
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Cooking the Spice Paste:
- In the same pan used for frying the tofu, add a little more oil if necessary and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the blended spice paste to the pan. Sauté the paste for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste. Season with salt to taste.
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Combining Tofu and Spice Paste:
- Gently add the fried tofu cubes to the pan containing the sautéed spice paste. Toss the tofu in the paste until well-coated, ensuring every piece is enveloped in the flavorful mixture. Allow it to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the tofu absorb the spices.
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Serving:
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the Tahu Balado from the heat. Serve hot as a side dish with steamed rice or enjoy it on its own for a light meal.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust the number of red chilies according to your spice tolerance; you can also add bird’s eye chilies for extra heat.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce to the spice mixture.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheats well.
Enjoy your homemade Tahu Balado! This dish not only embodies the essence of Indonesian flavors but also offers a comforting and satisfying meal that will delight your family and friends.
