Tahu tempe bacem is a beloved Indonesian dish that beautifully marries the rich flavors of fermented soybean cakes (tempe) and tofu (tahu) in a sweet and savory braising sauce. This traditional recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal. Let’s dive into the recipe, complete with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempe | 2 packages (about 400g) |
| Tofu | 2 packages (about 400g) |
| Bay leaves | 3 sheets |
| Palm sugar (gula merah) | 250 g |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Shallots | 3 pieces |
| Coriander powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Sweet soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 1 liter |
Instructions
-
Preparation of Tofu and Tempe:
Begin by washing the tofu thoroughly, then cut it into cubes or slices according to your preference. Similarly, prepare the tempe by slicing it into pieces that suit your taste. -
Making the Spice Paste:
Chop the shallots finely or grind them together with the coriander powder until you achieve a smooth paste. -
Cooking the Broth:
In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the chopped shallots, bay leaves, palm sugar, granulated sugar, coriander powder, and salt to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients. -
Braising the Tofu and Tempe:
Carefully add the tofu and tempe to the pot. Stir gently to ensure that the pieces are coated in the flavorful broth. Allow the mixture to simmer, then add the sweet soy sauce. Continue to cook until the liquid reduces and is absorbed by the tofu and tempe, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Finishing Touches:
Once the broth has thickened and the tofu and tempe have absorbed the spices, remove the pot from heat and drain the excess liquid. -
Serving Suggestions:
You have two options for serving this dish. The first is to serve it immediately, enjoying the tofu and tempe in their savory-sweet glory. Alternatively, you can choose to fry the tofu and tempe in a pan until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Conclusion
Tahu tempe bacem is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Indonesian culinary traditions. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the nutritious ingredients, makes this dish a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Whether you choose to serve it fresh or crispy fried, it is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this comforting dish with steamed rice and your favorite vegetable sides for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!