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
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 1 papan (about 250 grams) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Bird’s Eye Chili | 7 pieces |
| Shallots | 2 pieces |
| Pepper | 2 pieces |
| Salt | to taste |
| MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) | a pinch |
| Sugar | a pinch |
| Cooking Oil | for frying |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 10 grams |
| Fat | 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 12 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | Varies (dependent on added salt) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempe:
- 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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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!