Balado Tahu Tempe: A Spicy Indonesian Delight
Balado Tahu Tempe is a vibrant and spicy dish originating from Indonesia, showcasing the delightful combination of tofu (tahu) and tempeh, which are staples in Indonesian cuisine. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a wonderful blend of textures and aromas, making it a perfect companion for rice or as a stand-alone dish. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare Balado Tahu Tempe from scratch, including all the necessary ingredients and steps to achieve that authentic taste.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 package |
| Tofu | 1 package |
| Spices | |
| Shallots | 5 pieces |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 5 leaves |
| Ginger (crushed) | 2 cm |
| Bay leaves | 3 leaves |
| Bird’s eye chili | to taste |
| Red chili | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
| Granulated sugar | to taste |
| Chicken stock powder | to taste |
| Water | as needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tofu and Tempeh: Begin by cutting the tofu and tempeh into your desired shapes, whether cubes, triangles, or slices. Once cut, fry them in hot oil until they are half-cooked and slightly golden. This step adds texture and flavor, setting the foundation for your dish.
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Blend the Spices: In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, ginger, and the fresh chilies. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Reserve the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and crushed ginger for later.
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Sauté the Spice Mixture: In a frying pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste along with the reserved lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and crushed ginger. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial, as it brings out the aromatic flavors of the spices.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the fried tofu and tempeh to the pan. Mix gently to coat them evenly with the spices. Add a little water to prevent the mixture from drying out. Then, season with chicken stock powder, salt, and sugar according to your taste. Stir everything together, ensuring that the tofu and tempeh are well-coated with the spice blend.
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Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce has thickened slightly and the tofu and tempeh have absorbed the spicy goodness.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the pan from heat. Serve your Balado Tahu Tempe hot with steamed rice, or enjoy it as a flavorful side dish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this delightful taste of Indonesia.
Balado Tahu Tempe offers a delicious way to experience the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine, all while being simple and satisfying to prepare. The combination of crispy tofu and tempeh with aromatic spices creates an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the journey of cooking this authentic recipe, and don’t forget to share the love!
