Sambal Tempe Semangit: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Sambal Tempe Semangit is a delectable Indonesian dish that beautifully combines the earthy flavors of tempeh with the vibrant heat of chilies and aromatic spices. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also embodies the essence of Indonesian home cooking, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block (papan) |
| Bird’s eye chilies | 7 pieces (cabai rawit) |
| Red chilies | 6 pieces (cabai domba) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Shallots | 4 cloves |
| Salt/seasoning powder | to taste |
| Sugar | to taste |
| Cooking oil | as needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by slicing the tempeh into your desired shape—this could be thin strips or small cubes, depending on your preference. Once sliced, heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Fry the tempeh until it is half-cooked and has a light golden color. Remove from the heat and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add more oil if necessary, and toss in the garlic, shallots, and both types of chilies. Sauté them over medium heat until they are fragrant and the shallots become translucent. This step is crucial, as it releases the natural oils and flavors from the ingredients.
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Mortar and Pestle Time: Once the aromatics are cooked, transfer them to a mortar and pestle. Add the fried tempeh to the mix and pound gently. Aim for a coarse texture, allowing some larger pieces to remain for a delightful bite. This rustic method enhances the flavors, making the sambal truly special.
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Season the Mixture: After achieving your desired texture, season the mixture with a pinch of salt or seasoning powder and sugar. This will help balance the heat from the chilies and enhance the overall flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
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Final Fry: Heat a bit of oil in the pan again and return the sambal mixture to the heat. Sauté briefly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This final cooking step helps deepen the flavors while ensuring everything is heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once done, transfer your Sambal Tempe Semangit to a serving dish. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled meats, or even as a standalone snack. Enjoy the rich, spicy goodness!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fats | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Sambal Tempe Semangit is a versatile dish that showcases the delicious potential of tempeh, enhanced by the robust flavors of chilies and spices. This recipe invites you to explore the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia while providing a delightful experience for your taste buds. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!
