Cara Bikin Orek Tempe

>Hello Sohib EditorOnline, are you looking for delicious and easy-to-make Indonesian cuisine? Orek tempe might be the answer! This dish is famous for its savory and sweet taste, as well as its practicality. In this journal article, we will guide you on how to make orek tempe step-by-step. Let’s get started!

What is Orek Tempe?

Orek tempe is a traditional Indonesian dish made from tempe, which is a fermented soybean cake. It’s a stir-fry dish with a sweet sauce, usually served as a side dish. However, with the increasing popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets, orek tempe has been promoted as a main course. This dish is easy to find in Indonesian restaurants and street vendors, and also easy to make at home.

Tempe

Tempe is a staple food in Indonesia, especially in Java, where it originated. It’s made from soybeans that have been cooked, fermented, and pressed into a cake-like form. Tempe is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy and nutritious food choice. It’s also affordable and versatile, as it can be cooked in various ways.

Ingredients

The ingredients for orek tempe are simple and easy to find. Here’s what you need:

Instructions

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s start cooking orek tempe!

Instructions on Making Orek Tempe

Step 1: Preparing the Tempe

Cut the tempe into small cubes, around 1-2 cm. This will make it easier to cook and absorb the sauce. Then, deep-fry the tempe cubes until they turn golden brown. You can also sauté them with a little bit of oil if you prefer a healthier option. Set aside.

Step 2: Making the Sauce

In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic, shallot, and red chili (if using) until fragrant. Then, add the palm sugar, kecap manis, salt, and water. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Step 3: Stir-Frying the Tempe with the Sauce

Add the deep-fried tempe into the pan with the sauce. Stir until the tempe is evenly coated with the sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce caramelizes and thickens. This will take around 5-10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it cool for a while.

Step 4: Serving Orek Tempe

Orek tempe is usually served as a side dish with steamed rice, vegetables, and other Indonesian dishes. You can also eat it as a snack or topping for your salad. Enjoy your savory and sweet orek tempe!

FAQ about Orek Tempe

Q: Can I use other types of protein instead of tempe?

A: Yes, you can use tofu, chicken, beef, or shrimp. However, the cooking time and method will vary, so adjust accordingly.

Q: Can I make orek tempe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can store orek tempe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Q: What is the difference between orek tempe and tempe mendoan?

A: Tempe mendoan is another popular tempe dish in Indonesia that originated in Central Java. It’s a deep-fried tempe with a thin and crispy batter, served with spicy soy sauce. It’s lighter and crunchier than orek tempe, which is stir-fried and has a thicker sauce.

Q: Is orek tempe suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets?

A: Yes, orek tempe is a perfect dish for vegetarians and vegans, as it doesn’t contain any animal products. Just make sure to use vegan-friendly kecap manis and check the ingredients for other possible non-vegan items.

Q: Can I add vegetables to orek tempe?

A: Yes, you can add diced carrots, green beans, or bell peppers to orek tempe for a more colorful and nutritious meal. Stir-fry them together with the tempe or blanch them separately and mix before serving.

Q: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce?

A: Yes, you can adjust the amount of palm sugar according to your preference. However, the sweetness balances the saltiness and umami flavor of the dish, so don’t reduce it too much.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you have learned how to make orek tempe from scratch! This Indonesian dish is easy to make, healthy, and delicious. You can also experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste. We hope you enjoy making and eating orek tempe as much as we do. Selamat makan (happy eating)!

Cara Bikin Orek Tempe