Tahu Aci Pedas Manis: A Sweet and Spicy Tofu Delight from Bandung
Tahu Aci Pedas Manis is a beloved Indonesian snack originating from Bandung, known for its delightful combination of textures and flavors. This recipe will guide you through the process of making these crispy tofu balls coated in a savory sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and heat. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a standalone treat, this dish captures the essence of Indonesian street food.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Tofu | 6 pieces, mashed with a fork |
| Tapioca Flour | 100 grams |
| Egg | 1, beaten |
| Green Onions | To taste, chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Sauce Ingredients: | |
| Chili Sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Ketchup | 1 tablespoon |
| Spice Paste 1: | |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Shallots | 5 pieces, minced |
| Spice Paste 2: | |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Shallots | 5 pieces, minced |
| Bird’s Eye Chili | 5 pieces, finely chopped (adjust to taste) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed yellow tofu, beaten egg, tapioca flour, and the first spice paste (garlic and shallots). Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, and conduct a taste test to ensure the seasoning is to your liking.
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Shape the Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Ensure that they are compact and hold together well.
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Boil the Balls: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently place the tofu balls into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, indicating that they are done. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they float, remove them from the water and let them drain and cool.
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Fry the Balls: In a deep frying pan or wok, heat oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cooled tofu balls in batches, frying them until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, about 3-4 minutes. Remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a separate pan, heat a little oil and sauté the second spice paste (garlic, shallots, and bird’s eye chili) until fragrant. Then add the chili sauce and ketchup, stirring well to combine. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Combine and Serve: Gently toss the fried tofu balls in the sauce until they are well coated. Add the chopped green onions and mix again. Serve the Tahu Aci Pedas Manis warm, either as a snack or an appetizer, and enjoy the delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that this dish offers.
This Tahu Aci Pedas Manis recipe is not just a culinary treat but also a delightful way to experience the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a tasty snack, these tofu balls are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
