Sambal Tempe Kemangi
This vibrant Sambal Tempe Kemangi is a delightful Indonesian dish that combines the rich, nutty flavor of tempeh with the aromatic freshness of basil. Perfect for those seeking a unique and flavorful side, it brings a burst of taste to any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh (wrapped in banana leaves for enhanced flavor) | 1 board (approximately 250g) |
| Fresh basil leaves | A handful (several sprigs) |
| Red chilies | 7 pieces |
| Curly red chilies | 2 pieces |
| Tomatoes | 3 pieces |
| Shallots | 6 pieces |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Brown sugar | To taste |
| Flavor enhancer (MSG) | A pinch (optional) |
| Cooking oil | For frying tempeh (about 5-6 tablespoons) |
| Shrimp paste (terasi) | 1/4 package (use ABC brand for best results) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tempeh: Cut the tempeh into 1.5 cm cubes. In a frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Fry the tempeh pieces until they turn golden brown, being careful not to overcook them to a crisp. Once done, set aside.
-
-
Prep the Ingredients: Clean the tomatoes, shallots, garlic, and both types of chilies. Cut each ingredient into halves, keeping the garlic aside for later use.
-
Cook the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary (around 5-6 tablespoons). Start by frying the garlic and shrimp paste until fragrant and the garlic turns golden. Then, add the shallots, red chilies, curly chilies, and tomatoes. Stir-fry until all the ingredients are cooked through and fragrant.
-
Make the Sambal: Transfer the cooked ingredients to a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Grind them into a coarse paste, adjusting the flavor with brown sugar, salt, and MSG according to your taste preference.
-
Combine and Serve: Gently mix the fried tempeh into the sambal paste, pressing it down lightly to absorb the flavors. Finally, add the fresh basil leaves, with some lightly crushed to release their aroma. Stir until everything is well combined.
-
Enjoy: Your Sambal Tempe Kemangi is now ready to be served! Pair it with rice or as a side dish to complement your main course.
This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast. Happy cooking! 🍽️
