Tahu Goreng Bumbu Merah: A Spicy Indonesian Tofu Delight
Tahu Goreng Bumbu Merah is a flavorful Indonesian dish that highlights the simplicity of tofu combined with a vibrant red spice blend. This recipe features golden tofu fried to perfection, bathed in a fragrant sauce made from red chilies, shallots, garlic, and aromatic spices. Ideal as a main course or a side dish, this recipe will bring a taste of Indonesia to your table, showcasing both rich flavors and a delightful presentation. Here’s how to create this delicious dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow tofu (tahu kuning) | 15 pieces |
| Large red chilies (cabe merah) | 7 pieces |
| Candlenuts (kemiri) | 2 pieces |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 6 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 6 cloves |
| Lemongrass (serai) | 1 stalk |
| Bay leaves (daun salam) | 2 leaves |
| Fresh turmeric (kunyit) | A small piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Cooking oil | For frying tofu and sautéing spices |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 180 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | Varies based on added salt |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tofu:
Begin by cutting the yellow tofu into halves. Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat and carefully fry the tofu pieces until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside to drain on paper towels. -
-
Blend the Spice Mixture:
In a blender or food processor, combine the large red chilies, candlenuts, shallots, garlic, and a small piece of fresh turmeric. Blend these ingredients into a smooth paste, adding a splash of water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency. -
Sauté the Spices:
In the same pan used for frying the tofu, add a bit more cooking oil if needed and heat it over medium heat. Add the blended spice mixture and sauté for a few minutes until it becomes fragrant. -
Add Aromatics:
Once the spices are well-cooked, add a small amount of water to help cook the spices thoroughly. Then, add the fried tofu pieces along with the bay leaves and lemongrass. Stir gently to ensure the tofu is well-coated with the spice mixture. -
Season to Taste:
Allow the dish to simmer for a few minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors. Afterward, season with salt and sugar according to your taste preferences. Taste the dish to ensure the flavors are balanced. -
Final Touches:
Once the tofu is well-seasoned and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the pan from heat. Optionally, add a chopped tomato for freshness and a pop of color, stirring it in gently. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the Tahu Goreng Bumbu Merah to a serving dish. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or as a side to a larger Indonesian meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the comforting textures!
Tahu Goreng Bumbu Merah is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Indonesian culinary traditions that can easily become a favorite in your home. Whether you are serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich taste and aromatic essence. Happy cooking!
