Discover the authentic flavors of Indonesia with this healthier take on a classic 'Tempe Bacem' recipe: Sugar-Free Tempe Bacem. Perfect for those seeking a refined sugar-free option, this dish replaces traditionally sweetened broth with naturally aromatic coconut water and tamarind paste for a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes. The tempeh is gently simmered alongside fragrant shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, and bay leaves until infused with rich flavors before being shallow-fried to golden perfection in coconut oil. Serve this tantalizing protein-packed dish with steamed rice or vibrant vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Ready in under an hour, this easy recipe is ideal for health-conscious food lovers who crave bold, authentic Indonesian cuisine!
Cut the tempeh into medium-sized rectangular slices, about 1 cm thick.
In a blender or mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic, and coriander seeds into a smooth paste.
In a pot, combine the sliced tempeh, the spice paste, coconut water, soy sauce, tamarind paste, bay leaves, galangal, and salt.
Add 200 milliliters of water to ensure the tempeh is fully submerged. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat, then lower to a simmer. Cover with a lid and let it cook for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the liquid to reduce. Turn the tempeh pieces gently halfway through cooking.
Once the liquid has mostly evaporated, remove the tempeh pieces and set them aside to cool slightly.
Heat the coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the tempeh slices in batches until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Place the fried tempeh on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve warm as a main dish or side dish, paired with steamed rice or vegetables.
Calories |
1563 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 102.4 g | 131% | |
| Saturated Fat | 61.2 g | 306% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3984 mg | 173% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 100.6 g | 37% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.2 g | ||
| Protein | 90.5 g | 181% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 657 mg | 51% | |
| Iron | 13.4 mg | 74% | |
| Potassium | 3907 mg | 83% | |
*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.