Orek Tempe: A Delicious Indonesian Tempeh Stir-Fry
Orek Tempe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases tempeh, a fermented soybean cake popular in Indonesian cuisine. This recipe balances the rich, nutty flavors of tempeh with a medley of aromatic spices, chilies, and a touch of sweetness, creating a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. Whether you’re familiar with Indonesian cooking or trying something new, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 piece (papan) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, thinly sliced |
| Shallots | 6 cloves, thinly sliced |
| Curly Red Chilies | 4, sliced |
| Large Red Chili | 1, sliced |
| Bird’s Eye Chilies | 4, sliced |
| Palm Sugar | 50 grams, finely chopped |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay Leaves | 2 leaves |
| Galangal | To taste |
| Tamarind Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Sweet Soy Sauce | 3 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information
The following table summarizes the approximate nutritional values per serving of Orek Tempe:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 12 grams |
| Total Fat | 9 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 24 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by slicing the tempeh into long strips. Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the tempeh until it is golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the sliced shallots and garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and turn golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the Chilies and Herbs: Introduce the sliced curly red chilies, large red chili, bird’s eye chilies, bay leaves, and galangal to the pan. Stir-fry for another minute, allowing the chilies to release their flavors.
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Incorporate the Seasonings: Add the tamarind water, finely chopped palm sugar, salt, granulated sugar, and sweet soy sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. Cook until the sauce thickens, approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Combine with Tempeh: Finally, add the fried tempeh to the pan. Toss gently to coat the tempeh with the flavorful sauce and ensure it is heated through. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tempeh to absorb the sauce.
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Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated, remove from heat. Serve warm as a main dish or as a side to accompany rice and your favorite vegetables. Enjoy your Orek Tempe with a smile and share it with loved ones!
Conclusion
Orek Tempe is not just a meal; it is a delightful celebration of Indonesian flavors that brings people together around the dining table. With its enticing aroma and harmonious blend of spices, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Happy cooking! 😊
