Tempe Orek: A Savory Indonesian Delight
Tempe orek is a beloved Indonesian dish that showcases the nutty flavor and hearty texture of tempeh, enhanced with aromatic spices and a touch of sweetness. This dish not only serves as a delicious accompaniment to warm rice but also embodies the essence of Indonesian comfort food. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps for this delightful recipe.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 2 pieces |
| Peanuts | 1/4 cup |
| Large red chilies | 3 pieces |
| Shallots | 5 pieces |
| Sweet soy sauce | 4 tablespoons |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer | To taste |
| Water | 150 ml |
| Cooking oil | For frying and sautéing |
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Tempeh: Cut the tempeh into matchstick-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
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Slice the Aromatics: Thinly slice the shallots and the large red chilies. It’s best not to slice the chilies too thin to maintain some texture.
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Fry the Peanuts: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the peanuts until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside to drain on paper towels.
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Fry the Tempeh: In the same skillet, fry the tempeh pieces until they are crispy and golden. Once done, remove them and drain excess oil on paper towels.
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Sauté the Shallots: Using a little of the remaining oil in the skillet, sauté the sliced shallots until they are fragrant and translucent.
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Combine Ingredients: Add 150 ml of water to the sautéed shallots and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add sugar and stir until it is dissolved.
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Incorporate the Tempeh and Peanuts: Add the fried tempeh and peanuts into the mixture, stirring well to coat them evenly.
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Season the Dish: Pour in the sweet soy sauce and season with sugar, salt, and flavor enhancer to taste. Mix well and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
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Add the Chilies: Gently fold in the sliced red chilies, allowing them to infuse their flavor into the dish. Cook until the water has reduced and the dish has thickened.
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Serve: Once the liquid has evaporated and the tempeh is well-coated with the sauce, remove it from heat. Serve warm alongside freshly steamed rice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Tempe orek is more than just a dish; it’s a reflection of Indonesian culinary heritage, rich in flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a family meal or as a side dish for gatherings. With its blend of savory and slightly sweet notes, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dining table. Happy cooking!
