Discover the rich and irresistible flavors of Tahu Bacem, a beloved Indonesian dish that elevates humble tofu to new culinary heights. This recipe combines firm tofu with a fragrant marinade of coconut water, shallots, garlic, coriander, cumin, and aromatic bay leaves, all simmered to perfection with palm sugar and soy sauce for a subtly sweet and savory taste. The tofu is then fried to achieve a golden, crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. Perfect as a side dish or main course, Tahu Bacem showcases authentic Indonesian cooking techniques and uses galangal to bring a unique earthy aroma to the dish. Quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this tofu recipe is a must-try for lovers of Southeast Asian cuisine.
Drain the tofu and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut into 2 cm thick pieces.
In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, blend shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds into a smooth paste.
In a large pot, combine coconut water, the spice paste, palm sugar, bay leaves, galangal slices, salt, and soy sauce.
Add the tofu pieces to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Allow the tofu to absorb the flavors and the liquid to reduce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the liquid has mostly evaporated, remove the pot from heat and let the tofu cool slightly.
Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Fry the cooked tofu pieces until golden brown on all sides, turning occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch.
Remove from the pan and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Serve the tofu bacem warm as a side dish or as part of a main course.
Calories |
1066 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 60.3 g | 77% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.9 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 25.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3746 mg | 163% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 103.1 g | 37% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.0 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 61.8 g | ||
| Protein | 55.5 g | 111% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 840 mg | 65% | |
| Iron | 12.3 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 3104 mg | 66% | |
*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.