Tempe Tahu Pedas Manis: A Spicy-Sweet Tempeh and Tofu Delight
Tempe Tahu Pedas Manis is a delightful dish hailing from Indonesia, showcasing the beautiful harmony of flavors that can be achieved with tempeh and tofu. This recipe combines the nutty richness of tempeh and the smooth texture of tofu, all brought together in a savory-sweet sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you are looking for a vegetarian main dish or a flavorful side, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tahu (tofu) | 5 pieces |
| Tempe (fermented soy) | 1 block |
| Daun salam (bay leaves) | 3 leaves |
| Serai (lemongrass) | 2 stalks, bruised |
| Bawang merah (shallots) | 5 cloves |
| Bawang putih (garlic) | 3 cloves |
| Ketumbar bubuk (ground coriander) | 1 teaspoon |
| Kemiri (candlenuts) | 4 pieces |
| Cabe keriting (curly chilies) | 5 pieces |
| Jahe (ginger) | 1 small piece |
| Garam (salt) | to taste |
| Penyedap (seasoning) | to taste |
| Air (water) | as needed |
| Kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) | as needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
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Preparation of Ingredients: Begin by cutting the tofu and tempeh into your preferred shapes, ensuring they are bite-sized for easy cooking and eating.
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Fry the Tempeh and Tofu: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the cut pieces of tofu and tempeh, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside to drain on paper towels.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, ground coriander, candlenuts, curly chilies, and ginger. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. This fragrant mixture is key to bringing depth to the dish.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the bruised bay leaves and lemongrass. After a minute, pour in the blended spice paste. Sauté until the mixture is aromatic and the oil begins to separate.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the fried tempeh and tofu back into the pan, stirring gently to coat them with the spice paste. Ensure they are evenly mixed.
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Season and Simmer: Pour in sufficient water to cover the tempeh and tofu. Add the sweet soy sauce, salt, and seasoning to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast.
Tips for the Perfect Tempe Tahu Pedas Manis
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer chilies, depending on your preference.
- Variations: You can include vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.
This Tempe Tahu Pedas Manis recipe not only embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine but also serves as a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based proteins. Dive into the vibrant flavors and textures of this dish, and let it transport you to the streets of Indonesia! Enjoy your culinary journey!
