Spicy Sweet Tempe Stir-Fry (Oseng Tempe Pedas Manis)
Introduction
Oseng Tempe Pedas Manis is a delightful Indonesian dish that brings together the earthy flavors of tempeh with the vibrant, spicy notes of fresh chilies and aromatic spices. This dish is a perfect harmony of sweetness and heat, making it a satisfying addition to any meal. Whether served alongside steamed rice or as part of a larger spread, this stir-fry showcases the unique characteristics of tempeh, a staple in Indonesian cuisine. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, you’ll find it easy to whip up this dish for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (sliced and fried until half-cooked) | 1 board (about 250g) |
| Spices: | |
| Shallots | 5 cloves |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Green chilies | 10 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (to taste) | 5 pieces |
| Tomato | 1 piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Palm sugar | To taste |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | To taste |
| Water | A splash (for cooking) |
| Cooking oil | For sautéing |
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, approximate values based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by finely slicing the shallots and garlic. Next, chop the green chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and tomato into small pieces, ensuring they are ready for sautéing.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a pan, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced shallots and garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and golden brown, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
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Add the Chilies and Tomato: Incorporate the chopped green chilies and bird’s eye chilies into the pan, followed by the diced tomato. Sauté these ingredients together until the tomatoes begin to soften and the chilies become aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
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Season the Mixture: Pour a splash of water into the pan to create a sauce. Add salt, sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), and palm sugar according to your taste preferences. Allow this mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
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Combine with Tempeh: Once the mixture is bubbling, gently add the previously fried tempeh into the pan. Stir well to ensure the tempeh is coated in the sauce. Allow it to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reduces slightly.
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Taste and Adjust: As the dish simmers, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If it needs more sweetness, add a bit more palm sugar; if you prefer it spicier, increase the amount of chilies.
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Serve: Once the tempeh is fully coated and the flavors are well combined, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the spicy sweet tempe stir-fry warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside steamed rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Oseng Tempe Pedas Manis is a fantastic representation of Indonesian home cooking, combining simplicity and flavor in every bite. Its versatility makes it a great option for both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike. This dish not only provides a satisfying meal but also introduces you to the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia. Enjoy this delightful dish with friends and family, and savor the harmony of flavors that it brings to your table!
