Tempe Tahu Bacem – A Sweet and Savory Indonesian Delicacy
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this Tempe Tahu Bacem recipe. This traditional dish combines tofu and tempeh with a sweet and savory blend of spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any meal. Follow these steps to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients:
- 1 package of tofu skin (cut into cubes)
- 1 sheet of tempeh (cut into pieces)
- For the Spice Paste:
- 4 cloves shallots
- 5 cloves garlic
- 5 large red chilies
- 1-inch piece of turmeric
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 3 candlenuts
- Coriander seeds
- For Cooking:
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (from a sachet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- To taste: palm sugar
- 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
- 1/2 sachet beef bouillon powder
- Water as needed
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Spice Paste: Blend the shallots, garlic, red chilies, turmeric, ginger, candlenuts, and coriander seeds into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.
-
Cook the Spice Paste: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until aromatic and slightly browned.
-
Add Coconut Milk and Water: Pour in 1/2 cup of coconut milk and about 1/2 cup of water. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
-
Incorporate the Tofu and Tempeh: Add the tofu and tempeh pieces to the pan. Ensure they are well-coated with the spice mixture.
-
Season the Dish: Add salt, palm sugar to taste, sweet soy sauce, and beef bouillon powder. Stir to combine all ingredients.
-
Simmer: Let the mixture simmer until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. Adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Serve: Transfer the cooked Tempe Tahu Bacem to a serving dish. Enjoy it warm as part of your meal.
Happy Cooking! 😄
This recipe captures the essence of Indonesian home cooking, offering a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Enjoy this dish as a main course or a side, and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones!