Sambal Tempe Kencur
Sambal Tempe Kencur is a delightful Indonesian dish that beautifully marries the nutty flavor of tempeh with aromatic spices, making it a perfect companion for steamed rice or as a standalone snack. This recipe highlights the freshness of herbs and the unique taste of kencur, creating a vibrant dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe (approximately 15×15 cm) | 1 board, cut into cubes |
| Gendot chilies | 4, sliced |
| Galangal | 1 cm, bruised |
| Large red chili | 1, sliced |
| Lemongrass | 1 stalk, bruised |
| Mushroom seasoning | To taste |
| Granulated sugar | To taste |
| Basil leaves | 1 handful |
| Spice Paste: | |
| Red bird’s eye chilies | 5 |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | 4-5 cm |
| Garlic cloves | 4, minced |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by frying the tempeh cubes in hot oil until they are half-cooked and lightly golden. This initial frying enhances the tempeh’s flavor and texture.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, combine the red bird’s eye chilies, kencur, garlic cloves, and salt. Grind until you achieve a smooth paste, releasing the fragrant aromas of the spices.
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Mash the Tempeh: Transfer the fried tempeh to a mixing bowl. Using a fork or your hands, gently mash the tempeh until it is coarsely broken but still retains some texture.
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Sauté the Spices: In a hot pan, add a drizzle of oil and sauté the ground spice paste until it becomes fragrant and starts to cook through. Add the sliced gendot chilies, bruised lemongrass, and galangal to the pan. Continue to stir-fry until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
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Combine and Season: Add the mashed tempeh to the pan and mix well with the sautéed spices. Stir-fry everything together until the tempeh is fully cooked, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the spices. Finally, fold in the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with granulated sugar and mushroom seasoning to taste. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
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Serve: Once everything is well combined and fragrant, your Sambal Tempe Kencur is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it warm with steamed rice or as a standalone dish, and savor the delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
This Sambal Tempe Kencur recipe showcases the essence of Indonesian cuisine, blending simplicity with bold flavors. It’s a fantastic way to introduce tempeh into your meals, providing a nutritious and satisfying dish that celebrates the richness of traditional cooking. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful recipe!
