Balado Terong Tempe: A Spicy Eggplant and Tempeh Delight
Balado Terong Tempe is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the earthiness of tempeh and the vibrant flavors of eggplant, all enhanced by a rich and spicy sauce. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore traditional Indonesian flavors, and it can easily serve as a main dish or a side. Here’s how to prepare this delectable meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplant (Terong Ungu) | 3 medium |
| Tempeh | 1 block |
| Red Chili Peppers | To taste |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Shallots | 2 cloves |
| Tomato | 1/2 medium |
| Cooking Oil | As needed |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh:
- Start by cutting the tempeh into small cubes. Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan and fry the tempeh until it is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
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Prepare the Eggplant:
- Next, slice the eggplant into bite-sized pieces or according to your preference. Fry the eggplant in the same oil until it is tender and slightly browned. Once fried, remove from the pan and set aside with the tempeh.
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Make the Spice Paste:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the red chili peppers, garlic, shallots, and tomato. Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth paste. This mixture is the foundation of your balado sauce.
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Cook the Spice Paste:
- In the same frying pan, add a little more oil if necessary and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, pour in the blended spice paste. Sauté the paste, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and well-cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
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Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the fried eggplant and tempeh to the pan with the cooked spice paste. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the tempeh and eggplant are evenly coated with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Season the Dish:
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning by adding sugar and salt to suit your preference. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Serve:
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pan from the heat. Your Balado Terong Tempe is now ready to be served! Enjoy it with steamed rice for a complete meal.
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Enjoy and Experiment:
- This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to customize it to your taste.
Conclusion
Balado Terong Tempe is a wonderful representation of Indonesian cuisine, bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s a perfect dish for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, plant-based meal. Try this recipe for your next family dinner or gathering, and watch everyone savor every bite. Happy cooking!
