Telur Balado is a beloved Indonesian dish with hard-boiled eggs smothered in a rich, spicy chili sauce. This dish is bursting with flavors and perfectly combines heat and savory goodness. Follow this simple recipe to create your own delicious Telur Balado at home.
Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 5 shallots, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5-7 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Cooking oil
Instructions:
Hard-Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for 10 minutes. Once done, remove the eggs from the pot and let them cool. Peel the eggs and set them aside.
Prepare the Sauce: Heat some cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots, garlic, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
Add the chopped red chili peppers to the pan and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tamarind paste, sugar, and salt. Cook the mixture until the tomatoes are soft, and the sauce has thickened about 5-7 minutes. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Add the Eggs: Gently place the peeled, hard-boiled eggs into the pan with the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the eggs, making sure they are well-coated.
Simmer: Allow the eggs to simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Once done, transfer the Telur Balado to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro or fried shallots if desired.
Tips:
- To control the dish's spiciness, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before chopping them.
- Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce by adding more or less sugar and tamarind paste, according to your preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce.
Variations:
- Instead of hard-boiled eggs, you can use fried or scrambled eggs for a different texture.
- Add diced potatoes or tofu to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200 kcal (calories may vary depending on serving size and ingredients).
Conclusion:
Telur Balado is a delightful Indonesian dish showcasing the region's vibrant flavors. With its spicy chili sauce and tender eggs, it's sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Experiment with different variations and spice levels to suit your taste buds, and enjoy this delicious dish with steamed rice or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
