Sambal Tempe Recipe
Sambal Tempe is a delightful and flavorful Indonesian dish that combines crispy fried tempeh with a spicy, fragrant sambal sauce made from fresh chilies, garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s a simple, yet irresistible side dish that pairs perfectly with steaming hot rice. The combination of crunchy tempeh with the zesty, spicy sambal makes every bite a treat. This dish can be as fiery as you like, depending on the amount of chili used. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious sambal tempe at home!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (cut into pieces and fried) | 1/2 papan (about 100g) |
| Red chilies (can add more for extra heat) | 7 pieces (adjust as desired) |
| Garlic (large clove) | 1 clove |
| Salt | To taste |
| Kemangi (Indonesian basil) | A handful (to taste) |
| Cooking oil | Enough for frying |
Instructions:
-
Fry the Garlic and Chilies:
Heat a small amount of oil in a pan. Add the garlic and red chilies and fry them until they are softened and slightly golden. This will help release their natural flavors, making the sambal rich and aromatic. -
-
Blend the Mixture:
Once the garlic and chilies have softened, remove them from the heat and transfer them to a mortar and pestle, or use a food processor. Grind the mixture until it forms a coarse paste. Taste the sambal and adjust the seasoning by adding salt as needed. -
Add Tempeh and Basil:
Once the sambal paste is ready, add the fried tempeh pieces into the mixture. Toss everything together, adding the kemangi (Indonesian basil) and more salt if needed. You can either gently crush the ingredients together or leave them slightly coarse, depending on your texture preference. -
Final Mix and Serve:
Once everything is well combined, your sambal tempe is ready to serve. Enjoy it with a steaming bowl of rice, or serve it as a side dish with your favorite Indonesian meal.
Tips for the Perfect Sambal Tempe:
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier sambal, feel free to add more chilies or even a touch of sambal oelek (Indonesian chili paste).
- Tempeh Texture: For the best results, ensure the tempeh is fried until it’s crispy. This adds a lovely contrast to the spicy sambal.
- Fresh Herbs: Kemangi, or Indonesian basil, gives the dish a distinct aroma and flavor. If you can’t find kemangi, you can substitute it with regular basil, though the flavor will differ slightly.
This Sambal Tempe is sure to add a kick to any meal! Enjoy it as a simple side dish or pair it with your favorite main courses for an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine.
