Looking for a guilt-free twist on a traditional Indonesian snack? This Low Fat Arem Arem recipe reimagines a beloved dish with a healthy spin, perfect for anyone craving something light yet flavorful. Made with a blend of wholesome white or brown rice, vibrant veggies like grated carrots and green beans, and protein-packed crumbled tofu, this savory treat is wrapped in aromatic banana leaves for a rustic and authentic touch. Enhanced with garlic, shallots, and a splash of low-sodium soy sauce, each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and spices. Steamed to perfection, these banana leaf parcels make a nutritious snack or a light meal that’s big on taste, but easy on calories. Prep and cook in under an hour, this recipe strikes a balance between traditional comfort and mindful eating—ideal for health-conscious foodies or those exploring Indonesian cuisine.
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
In a pot, combine the rice with 600 ml of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and water is fully absorbed, about 15-18 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add the grated carrot, chopped green beans, and red chili to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the crumbled tofu, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Take off the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool slightly.
Clean and pat dry the banana leaves. Cut them into size if necessary to ensure they are about 20x20 cm squares.
Place a portion of cooked rice onto the center of each banana leaf. Flatten slightly and place a spoonful of the vegetable and tofu mixture on top of the rice. Add another small layer of rice over the filling.
Roll the banana leaf tightly to form a secure cylinder, folding the edges inwards to seal. Secure both ends with toothpicks.
Repeat the process for remaining portions.
Steam the Arem Arem in a steamer for 20 minutes, ensuring the seams are facing up.
Once steamed, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your low fat Arem Arem as a delicious snack or a light meal.
Calories |
919 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.7 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.9 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2480 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 144.0 g | 52% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.4 g | 37% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.1 g | ||
| Protein | 33.6 g | 67% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 519 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 8.9 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 1089 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.