Tumis Tempe Kemangi: A Flavorful Indonesian Stir-Fry
Introduction
Tumis Tempe Kemangi is a delightful Indonesian dish that combines the earthy flavor of tempeh with the aromatic freshness of kemangi (Thai basil). This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a quick lunch or dinner. The harmonious blend of spices and ingredients creates a tantalizing experience that showcases the beauty of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block |
| Kemangi (Thai basil), leaves only | 1 bunch |
| Shallots | 3 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Red bird’s eye chilies | 8 pieces |
| Curcuma (kencur) | 1 small piece |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| For the Tempeh Marinade | |
| Garlic (for marinade), minced | 2 cloves |
| Salt (for marinade) | 1 teaspoon |
| Water (for marinade) | as needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tempeh: Begin by slicing the tempeh into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, salt, and enough water to create a marinade. Add the sliced tempeh and allow it to marinate briefly, letting the flavors seep in.
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Fry the Tempeh: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated tempeh to the skillet. Fry until the tempeh is golden brown and crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the tempeh from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
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Prepare the Spice Mix: Using a mortar and pestle, coarsely grind the shallots, garlic, red chilies, and curcuma until you have a fragrant paste. This mixture will form the flavor base of the dish.
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Sauté the Spice Mix: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground spice mixture and sauté until it becomes aromatic and the chilies have softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Combine and Season: Once the spices are fragrant, gently add the fried tempeh back into the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the tempeh is evenly coated with the spices. Add the kemangi leaves and sprinkle with salt. Stir briefly to mix everything, allowing the kemangi to wilt slightly.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once you are satisfied with the flavor, remove it from the heat.
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Serve: Serve Tumis Tempe Kemangi warm as a side dish or as part of a larger Indonesian meal, accompanied by steamed rice and additional vegetables if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 180 |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Conclusion
Tumis Tempe Kemangi is not just a dish; it’s an expression of the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it exemplifies the idea that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. Enjoy this delightful dish and share the love of cooking with family and friends!
