Spicy Sambel Tempe: Crispy Fried Tempeh with Zesty Chili Sauce

Sambel Tempe: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Sambel Tempe is a deliciously spicy Indonesian dish that combines crispy fried tempe with a zesty chili sauce, making it a perfect accompaniment for rice or as a side dish to your favorite meals. This recipe showcases the rich flavors of traditional Indonesian ingredients, creating a dish that is both simple and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tempe:

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   • Begin by cutting the tempe into small pieces.
   • In a bowl, create a soaking solution using salt and minced garlic. Submerge the tempe in this mixture and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.

2. Fry the Tempe:

   • Heat enough cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated tempe and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tempe from the oil and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

3. Prepare the Sambel:

   • In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the shallots, garlic, and bird’s eye chili over medium heat until they are half-cooked and fragrant.
   • Transfer the sautéed mixture into a mortar and pestle (or a food processor) along with the pepper, sugar, MSG, and salt. Grind everything together until you achieve a smooth paste.

4. Combine the Ingredients:

   • Take the fried tempe and either gently crush it with your hands or use a spoon to break it into bite-sized pieces.
   • Mix the crushed tempe with the sambel, ensuring that the flavors are well incorporated.

5. Serve:

   • Transfer the Sambel Tempe to a serving dish. This dish is best enjoyed warm, alongside steamed rice or as a spicy side to your main dishes.

Tips for Enjoying Sambel Tempe

• Adjust the number of bird’s eye chilies based on your spice preference. For a milder version, you can reduce the quantity or replace them with sweet peppers.
• Serve Sambel Tempe with a side of fresh vegetables, such as cucumber or carrot sticks, for a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors.
• This dish can also be enjoyed as a topping for rice cakes or as a filling for wraps.

Sambel Tempe is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of Indonesian culinary culture, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create an explosion of flavors. Enjoy making this delightful dish and share it with your loved ones!