Tumis Daun Pepaya, or Stir-fried Papaya Leaves, is a famous Indonesian dish known for its unique flavour and nutritional benefits. Made from fresh papaya leaves, this dish is delicious and packed with vitamins and minerals. Here's a simple recipe to recreate this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients:
- Fresh papaya leaves (cleaned and chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 2 shallots (sliced)
- 2 red chillies (sliced, adjust according to your preference for spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon of cooking oil (preferably vegetable oil)
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, for balance)
Instructions:
- Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sliced shallots to the pan. Sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
- Add sliced red chillies to the pan and continue to sauté for another minute.
- Add the chopped papaya leaves to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the leaves are wilted and cooked.
- Season with salt and sugar if using. Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Once everything is cooked and well combined, remove from heat.
Presentation:
Serve the Saute Papaya Leaves hot as a side dish alongside steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian meal. If desired, garnish with additional fresh red chilli slices for a pop of colour and extra heat.Tips:
- Choose young papaya leaves for a tender texture and milder flavour.
- Clean the papaya leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the garlic and shallots and use minced ginger instead for flavour.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for a citrusy kick.
Variations:
- Add protein: Incorporate shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for added protein and texture.
- Enhance flavours: Experiment with additional spices such as turmeric, lemongrass, or shrimp paste (terasi) for a more complex flavour profile.
- Add vegetables: Mix in sliced carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for extra colour and nutrients.
