Title: Sambel Tempe: A Flavorful Tempe Chili Sauce
Sambel Tempe is a delightful Indonesian dish that showcases the rich flavors of tempeh combined with a spicy, aromatic chili sauce. This dish is simple to prepare and can serve as a perfect accompaniment to warm rice, adding a satisfying depth to your meal. Here’s a detailed recipe for making this traditional favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (fermented soybeans) | 1 papan (approx. 300g) |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chilies | 5 pieces |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | 1 segment (about 1 inch) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh:
- Begin by slicing the tempeh into small pieces. This allows for even cooking and ensures that the tempeh absorbs the flavors of the seasonings.
-
Season the Tempeh:
- In a mortar and pestle, combine the garlic and salt, then grind them into a smooth paste. This mixture will serve as the marinade for the tempeh.
-
Marinate the Tempeh:
- Rub the garlic and salt mixture all over the sliced tempeh, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. For optimal flavor, it is recommended to use half-fermented tempeh, which has not yet developed a strong yeast flavor.
-
Fry the Tempeh:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated tempeh slices to the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, which typically takes about 4–5 minutes per side.
-
Prepare the Chili Sauce:
- While the tempeh is frying, prepare the sambal by grinding the chilies, garlic, kencur, and a pinch of salt in a mortar and pestle until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the spiciness to your preference by adding or reducing the number of chilies.
-
Combine:
- Once the tempeh is fried, remove it from the pan and place it on a serving dish. Pour the sambal over the crispy tempeh. For an authentic touch, you can gently press the tempeh into the sambal, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Serve:
- Serve your Sambel Tempe hot, accompanied by steaming white rice. This dish is perfect as a side dish or even as a main attraction, bringing a burst of flavor to your dining experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Cooking Tips
- Tempeh Varieties: If you have access to various types of tempeh, feel free to experiment with them. Different varieties can add unique flavors and textures to the dish.
- Adjust the Heat: For those who prefer a milder taste, consider using fewer chilies or removing the seeds from the chilies before grinding.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, kencur, and chilies. The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste of your sambal.
Conclusion
Sambel Tempe is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that represents the essence of Indonesian cuisine. With its crispy texture and spicy kick, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and can easily become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this recipe as a part of your next meal and indulge in the vibrant tastes of Indonesia!
