Title: Sambal Tempe: A Spicy Tempeh Delight
Sambal tempe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that beautifully showcases the rich texture of tempeh combined with the heat of chilies and the aromatic essence of shallots. This Indonesian classic is not just a side dish but a tantalizing complement to rice, grilled meats, or vegetables. Here’s how to create this delightful sambal tempe that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (can substitute with leaf tempeh) | 1 stick (approx. 200g) |
| Shallots | 4 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit) | 8 pieces |
| Curly red chilies | ½ ounce (approx. 15g) |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by cutting the tempeh into large chunks. In a frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Fry the tempeh pieces until they turn a golden brown color, being careful not to let them get too dry and hard. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
-
Chop the Aromatics: While the tempeh is frying, slice the shallots in half and set them aside. Next, make a lengthwise slit in each of the bird’s eye chilies to prevent them from bursting in the oil when fried.
-
Fry the Shallots and Chilies: Once the tempeh is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same oil, add the prepared shallots and chilies. Fry them gently until they are wilted but still vibrant in color, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances their flavors and adds a beautiful aroma to the sambal.
-
Create the Sambal: In a mortar and pestle or a bowl, combine the fried shallots and chilies. Use a pestle or the back of a spoon to mash them together, ensuring they are not overly smooth; a slightly coarse texture adds depth to the sambal. Sprinkle in salt to taste, being cautious not to over-salt since the dish does not contain any sugar to balance it out.
-
Mix in the Tempeh: Add the fried tempeh into the mortar or bowl and gently crush it together with the sambal mixture. The goal is to incorporate the tempeh with the spices without turning it into a paste.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the sambal tempe to a serving dish. This dish is best served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with steamed rice, grilled meats, or as part of a larger meal spread. Get ready for a burst of flavors that is simply addictive!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | Varies (based on salt added) |
This sambal tempe recipe offers a delightful mix of spicy, savory, and nutty flavors, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Indonesia right in your kitchen, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving more!
