Spicy Surabaya Tahu Tek with Fried Tofu and Crackers

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons petis (fermented shrimp paste)
• 6 red bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar
• Shrimp paste (terasi) to taste
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons water

For Serving:

• Tahu pong (fried tofu)
• Shredded cabbage
• Fried snacks (homemade or store-bought)
• Lontong (compressed rice cake)
• Crackers (kerupuk)
• Fried egg

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: Begin by finely grinding the garlic. Next, add the bird’s eye chilies, palm sugar, salt, shrimp paste, and petis. Continue grinding until all ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.

2. Adjust Consistency: Once the sauce ingredients are thoroughly mixed and seasoned to your liking, add 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well to achieve the desired consistency for your sauce.

3. Serve: Arrange the Tahu pong, shredded cabbage, fried snacks, lontong, crackers, and a fried egg on a serving platter. Spoon the prepared sauce over the arranged ingredients or serve it on the side for dipping.

Enjoy this flavorful Surabaya classic with its rich, spicy sauce complementing the crispy tofu and other delicious accompaniments!