Sambal Krecek Tempe: A Fiery and Flavorful Delight
Sambal Krecek Tempe is an Indonesian dish that brings together the rich flavors of tempeh, succulent shrimp, and the delightful crunch of krupuk kulit (crispy skin). This dish is not just a feast for the palate but also an enticing aromatic experience that captivates the senses. Infused with a medley of spices and fresh ingredients, this sambal is sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (sliced) | 1 board |
| Shrimp (sliced) | To taste |
| Krupuk kulit (crispy skin) | Soaked in hot water until soft |
| Red chili peppers (to taste) | To taste |
| Fried shallots | To taste |
| Coconut milk | 1 cup |
| Lemongrass (smashed) | 1 stalk |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Kaffir lime leaves | 2 leaves |
| Galangal (smashed) | 2 segments |
| Ground spices: | |
| Shallots | 7 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | 2 pieces |
| Curly red chili peppers | 5 pieces |
| Salt, sugar, pepper, and seasoning powder | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ground Spices: Begin by grinding the shallots, garlic, kencur, and curly red chili peppers into a fine paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Set this aside for later use.
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Sauté the Spices: In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground spice mixture and sauté until fragrant and well-cooked, about 3-5 minutes.
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Add the Aromatics: To the skillet, add the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, smashed galangal, lemongrass, and whole red chili peppers. Continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices release their delightful aromas.
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Incorporate the Shrimp: Add the sliced shrimp to the mixture and cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes.
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Combine the Tempeh: Gently add the fried tempeh to the pan, stirring to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, along with sugar, salt, pepper, and seasoning powder to taste. Stir everything well and let the mixture come to a gentle boil.
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Simmer with Krecek: Once boiling, add the soaked krupuk kulit to the pan. Allow the dish to simmer until the liquid reduces slightly and the krecek absorbs the flavors, about 5-10 minutes.
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Final Touches: Taste the sambal and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, sugar, or spice according to your preference.
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Serve and Garnish: Remove the sambal from heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Top with a generous sprinkle of fried shallots for added texture and flavor. Serve warm with steamed rice or as part of a larger feast.
Sambal Krecek Tempe is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Its combination of textures and flavors will surely leave your guests asking for seconds. This sambal captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine, showcasing the balance of spice and savoriness that makes it truly delightful. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!
