Tempe Balado: A Flavorful Tempeh Dish
Introduction
Tempe Balado is a vibrant Indonesian dish that showcases the rich flavors of tempeh, a fermented soybean product that is both nutritious and delicious. This dish is known for its spicy and aromatic sauce, which adds a delightful kick to the mild tempeh. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for protein-packed meals or simply craving a new culinary adventure, Tempe Balado is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s explore this exciting recipe, perfect for serving as a main dish or a side.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 package |
| Spice Paste | |
| Shallots (bawang merah) | 5 cloves |
| Garlic (bawang putih) | 2 cloves |
| Red chili peppers (cabe merah) | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chili (cabe rawit) | 10 pieces |
| Small tomato | 1 piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Broth powder (optional) | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempeh: Start by cutting the tempeh into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the tempeh to season it lightly. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and fry the tempeh pieces until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the tempeh from the skillet and set it aside.
-
Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, red chili peppers, bird’s eye chili, and small tomato. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
-
Cook the Spice Paste: In the same skillet used for frying the tempeh, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the spice paste over medium heat. Cook until the paste is fragrant and the oil begins to separate, indicating that it is well-cooked.
-
Combine and Serve: Add the fried tempeh back into the skillet with the cooked spice paste. Stir well to ensure that the tempeh is evenly coated in the spicy sauce. Allow it to cook together for a few more minutes so the flavors meld. Season with additional salt and broth powder if desired.
-
Plate and Enjoy: Once the tempeh is well combined with the spice paste, remove it from the heat. Serve the Tempe Balado warm, accompanied by steamed rice for a complete meal. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in each bite!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | Varies (depends on added salt and broth) |
Conclusion
Tempe Balado is a delightful dish that not only highlights the versatility of tempeh but also brings the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine to your table. This recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy cooking and sharing this culinary gem with your loved ones!
