Tahu Tempe Bacem: A Sweet and Savory Indonesian Delight
Tahu Tempe Bacem is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the delicious pairing of tofu and tempeh, marinated in a rich blend of spices, sweet soy sauce, and herbs. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a favorite among many, and it’s perfect for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create this mouthwatering delicacy in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tofu | 12 pieces |
| Tempeh | 12 pieces |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Coriander | 1 ½ tablespoons |
| White Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Palm Sugar (sliced) | To taste |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Sweet Soy Sauce | 50 ml |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 200 ml (approx.) |
| Galangal | 3 cm |
| Bay Leaves | 3 leaves |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing your tofu and tempeh by cutting them into suitable pieces. Set them aside for later use.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic, coriander, and white pepper into a smooth paste. This aromatic mixture will be the base for the marinade.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a pot, pour in the water and add the spice paste you just made. Then, introduce the galangal and bay leaves for an added layer of flavor.
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Add the Sweetness: Incorporate the sliced palm sugar into the pot and stir the mixture gently. Follow this by adding the granulated sugar, ensuring that everything is well combined.
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Mix in the Main Ingredients: Carefully add the tofu and tempeh into the pot along with the sweet soy sauce. Gently mix the ingredients, ensuring the tofu and tempeh are well coated with the marinade.
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Simmer the Dish: Set the heat to medium and allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer. This will let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Cook Until Reduced: Continue cooking the dish until the water has mostly evaporated, and the tofu and tempeh are infused with the sweet and savory flavors of the marinade.
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Taste and Adjust: Don’t forget to taste your dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt or more sweet soy sauce if you prefer a richer flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the Tahu Tempe Bacem is ready, transfer it to a serving plate and enjoy it warm with steamed rice or as a part of a larger Indonesian meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200 |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Final Notes
Tahu Tempe Bacem is not only delicious but also rich in protein, making it a nutritious addition to your meals. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. Feel free to experiment with the sweetness level according to your taste, and enjoy this delightful Indonesian recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
