Tempe Kukus Sambal Tomat: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Tempe Kukus Sambal Tomat is a delightful Indonesian dish that combines the nutty richness of steamed tempeh with a vibrant, spicy tomato sambal. This dish not only showcases the unique flavors of Indonesian cuisine but also makes for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe to guide you through the process, ensuring that each step is clear and easy to follow.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (fermented soybean cake) | 1/2 papan (about 250g) |
| Green bird’s eye chilies | 10 pieces |
| Red chilies | 3 pieces |
| Large tomato | 1 piece |
| Shallots | 8 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Grilled shrimp paste (trasi) | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1.5 tsp |
| Palm sugar | 1 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Cut the tempeh into thick slices to ensure even steaming.
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Steam the Ingredients: In a steamer basket or a heatproof dish, place the sliced tempeh, whole green and red chilies, shallots, garlic, and the large tomato. Steam everything together over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes. If you have a rice cooker, you can place the ingredients above the rice pot while cooking rice, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Make the Sambal: Once the ingredients are steamed and fragrant, transfer them to a mortar and pestle. Add the grilled shrimp paste (trasi), salt, and palm sugar to the mixture. Using the pestle, pound and grind everything together until you achieve a chunky, yet well-combined sambal. The sambal should be vibrant and aromatic, with a good balance of heat and sweetness.
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Serve the Dish: To serve, place the steamed tempeh on a plate and generously spoon the sambal mixture over it. This dish is best enjoyed warm, and it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or as a side with other Indonesian dishes.
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Enjoy!: Take a moment to relish the flavors. The umami from the tempeh combined with the spicy, sweet sambal creates a delightful taste experience that is sure to impress.
Cooking Tips
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Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder sambal, reduce the number of green chilies or remove the seeds. For those who enjoy an extra kick, feel free to add more chilies or even a splash of chili sauce.
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Substituting Ingredients: If you can’t find trasi, you can replace it with fermented shrimp paste or even miso for a vegetarian version, although the flavor will differ slightly.
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Storing Leftovers: Any leftover sambal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be used as a condiment for various dishes, adding flavor and spice.
Final Thoughts
Tempe Kukus Sambal Tomat is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that encapsulate the essence of Indonesian cooking. With its simple preparation and rich taste, this dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply a cozy meal at home. Dive into this culinary journey, and savor the warmth of homemade sambal paired with the wholesome goodness of tempeh!
