Elevate your taste buds: discover the explosive flavors of nasi goreng tempeh

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Indonesia with this irresistible nasi goreng tempeh recipe. Nasi goreng, meaning “fried rice” in Indonesian, is a beloved street food staple that combines savory rice, aromatic spices, and a medley of ingredients. In this recipe, we elevate the classic dish with the addition of tempeh, a protein-packed and flavorful plant-based alternative.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old
• 1 block (14 ounces) tempeh, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (optional)
• Fried shallots, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the tempeh: Crumble the tempeh into small pieces and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and carrot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tempeh: Stir in the crumbled tempeh and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with spices: Add the soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, shrimp paste (if using), coriander, cumin, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Incorporate the peas: Add the frozen peas and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
6. Add the rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook until the rice is heated through and well coated with the sauce, about 3 minutes.
7. Scramble the egg (optional): If desired, push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten egg. Scramble the egg until cooked through.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fried shallots and lime wedges. Serve hot and enjoy!

Health Benefits of Tempeh

Beyond its culinary appeal, tempeh is a nutritional powerhouse:

• High in protein: Tempeh is a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs.
• Rich in fiber: Tempeh is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and satiety.
• Contains probiotics: Tempeh is fermented, which means it contains probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut health.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals: Tempeh is a good source of vitamins B12, iron, and calcium.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or corn.
• Use different protein: If you don’t have tempeh, you can substitute with tofu, chicken, or shrimp.
• Adjust the heat: For a spicier nasi goreng, add a pinch of chili powder or chopped chili peppers.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the shrimp paste and egg for a vegetarian version.

Tips for the Perfect Nasi Goreng Tempeh:

• Use day-old rice: Day-old rice is less sticky and produces better results in nasi goreng.
• Heat the skillet well: A hot skillet will help create that delicious smoky flavor.
• Stir-fry continuously: Stir the ingredients constantly to prevent burning.
• Taste and adjust seasonings: Adjust the soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, and spices to your preferences.
• Serve immediately: Nasi goreng is best served hot and fresh.

Ending Notes

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this nasi goreng tempeh recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. Its vibrant flavors, nutritional benefits, and ease of preparation make it a culinary masterpiece. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between nasi goreng and regular fried rice?

Nasi goreng is an Indonesian dish that is typically made with kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), shrimp paste, and a variety of vegetables. Regular fried rice, on the other hand, is often made with soy sauce and other seasonings and does not typically include shrimp paste.

2. How long does nasi goreng tempeh last in the refrigerator?

Nasi goreng tempeh can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. However, brown rice will take longer to cook and may not be as soft as white rice.

4. What are some other side dishes that I can serve with nasi goreng tempeh?

Nasi goreng tempeh can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as satay, gado-gado, or acar.

5. How can I make my nasi goreng tempeh spicier?

To make your nasi goreng tempeh spicier, you can add a pinch of chili powder or chopped chili peppers.