Tahu Tek is a popular Indonesian street food dish originating from East Java, particularly Surabaya. It consists of fried tofu and rice cake (lontong), topped with a savory peanut sauce and garnished with vegetables. The dish is known for its delicious combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This article provides a detailed recipe for making Tahu Tek, including the necessary ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and calorie information.
For the Tofu and Rice Cake:
- 400 grams of firm tofu, cut into cubes
- 200 grams of rice cake (lontong), sliced
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 100 grams of bean sprouts, blanched
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 200 grams of roasted peanuts
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 5 bird's eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 1 tablespoon of palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 200 ml of water
For Garnish:
- Fried shallots
- Fresh cilantro or celery leaves, chopped
Preparing the Tofu and Rice Cake:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Fry the tofu cubes until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Slice the rice cake (lontong) into bite-sized pieces.
Making the Peanut Sauce:
1. Blend the roasted peanuts, garlic, and bird's eye chilies in a food processor until you get a coarse paste.
2. In a saucepan, combine the peanut paste with tamarind paste, sweet soy sauce, palm sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add water while stirring continuously until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
4. Cook the sauce over low heat for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Assembling the Dish:
1. Arrange the sliced rice cake, fried tofu, cucumber, bean sprouts, and hard-boiled egg slices on a serving plate.
2. Generously drizzle the peanut sauce over the top.
3. Garnish with fried shallots and chopped cilantro or celery leaves.
Tips
- Ensure the tofu is well-drained before frying to achieve a crisp texture.
- Adjust the amount of chilies in the peanut sauce according to your spice preference.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Blanch the bean sprouts briefly to maintain their crunchiness.
Variations
- Substitute the rice cake with boiled potatoes for a different texture.
- Add sliced tomatoes for a refreshing twist.
- Include fried tempeh for added protein and a different flavor profile.
Calorie Information
- Tofu (400g): 320 calories
- Rice cake (200g): 200 calories
- Cucumber (1 medium): 16 calories
- Bean sprouts (100g): 30 calories
- Hard-boiled eggs (2 large): 140 calories
- Peanut sauce (per serving): 200 calories (approx.)
Total (per serving): Approximately 450-500 calories, depending on portion size and exact ingredients used.
Conclusion
Tahu Tek is a delightful Indonesian dish that brings together the savory flavors of fried tofu, rice cake, and a rich peanut sauce. This recipe offers a detailed guide to making Tahu Tek at home, including tips for achieving the best results and variations to suit different preferences. Whether you're a fan of Indonesian cuisine or looking to try something new, Tahu Tek is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its unique and delicious combination of flavors. Enjoy making and savoring this traditional dish!
