Tempe Orek (Tempe Stir-fry)
This Tempe Orek recipe is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Indonesian comfort food, specifically from the city of Bandung. The tempeh, a protein-rich fermented soybean cake, is stir-fried with aromatic ingredients like onions, garlic, and chilies, then glazed with sweet soy sauce for a perfect balance of savory and sweet. While this dish is typically served with rice, its bold flavors make it a star on any dining table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tempe (fermented soy cake) | 1 block (cut into cubes) |
| Red onions (finely sliced) | 3 cloves |
| Green chilies | 2 pcs |
| Red chilies | 2 pcs |
| Garlic (finely sliced) | 2 cloves |
| Green onion (chopped) | 1 stalk |
| Tomato (cut into quarters) | 1 pc |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 3-4 tbsp |
| Seasoning (optional) | A pinch (to taste) |
Preparation Steps
-
Prepare the Tempeh:
Cut the tempeh into small cubes or rectangles. Heat oil in a pan and fry the tempeh until it’s half crispy, or according to your preference. If you like it drier, let it fry a bit longer until it turns golden brown and crisp. Once fried, set it aside. -
Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pan, add a little more oil and sauté the finely sliced red onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. -
Cook the Sauce:
Add the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) to the pan. Allow it to cook until it slightly thickens, almost becoming caramelized in texture. -
Simmer with Tempeh:
Pour a small amount of water into the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir well, then add the fried tempeh cubes, along with a pinch of sugar, salt, and seasoning (optional). Mix everything thoroughly and adjust the taste to your liking. -
Final Touches:
Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are well combined, add the green onions, green chilies, red chilies, and tomato quarters. Stir for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well-coated and heated through. -
Serve:
Remove from heat and serve your Tempe Orek hot with steamed rice or as a side dish.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 150-200 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fats | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
This Tempe Orek recipe is quick, simple, and a perfect blend of flavors—sweet, savory, and a bit spicy. It’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of tempeh in a satisfying and flavorful dish. Whether you’re a fan of Indonesian cuisine or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to be a hit!
