Tempe Jeletot: A Spicy Tempeh Delight
Tempe Jeletot is a delectable Indonesian dish that features tempeh stuffed with a spicy mixture of herbs and chilies, all beautifully coated in a crispy batter. This dish not only embodies the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine but also showcases the versatility of tempeh, making it a perfect snack or side dish for any meal. Let’s embark on this culinary journey to create Tempe Jeletot that will tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 papan (1 package) |
| Garlic | 6 cloves |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Curly Red Chilies | 5 pieces |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | To taste |
| Bird’s Eye Chilies | To taste |
| Green Onions | To taste |
| All-purpose Flour | 250 grams (1/4 kg) |
| Rice Flour | 6 tablespoons |
| Flavoring (optional) | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander | To taste |
| Oil for frying | As needed |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempeh:
Begin by slicing the tempeh in half lengthwise, ensuring not to cut all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling. -
-
Make the Filling:
In a mortar and pestle, finely grind the garlic, shallots, curly red chilies, and kencur until you achieve a smooth paste. Once ground, heat a small amount of oil and pour it over the mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Prepare the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and rice flour. In a separate bowl, finely grind 2 cloves of shallots and garlic along with the coriander, salt, and flavoring. Gradually add water to this mixture to create a smooth batter, then fold in the chopped green onions. Adjust the seasoning to taste. -
Stuff the Tempeh:
Fill each piece of the prepared tempeh with the spicy chili mixture. Ensure the filling is evenly distributed to maximize flavor in each bite. Repeat this step until all the tempeh is filled. -
Fry the Tempeh:
In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, dip the stuffed tempeh into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Carefully place the battered tempeh in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. -
Serve:
Once fried to perfection, remove the tempeh from the oil and let it drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve the Tempe Jeletot warm, allowing the fragrant spices and crunchy texture to shine.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Tips for the Best Tempe Jeletot
- Customize the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the number of chilies to suit your spice preference. For an extra kick, include more bird’s eye chilies.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a sweet soy dipping sauce or a tangy vinegar-based dip for a delightful contrast.
- Make Ahead: The filling can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for a quick assembly when you’re ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
Tempe Jeletot is a celebration of flavors and textures, and making it at home is a rewarding experience that brings a piece of Indonesian culture to your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a larger meal, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary creation and share the love with family and friends!
