Tempe Orek (Indonesian Stir-fried Tempeh)

Tempe Orek is a popular Indonesian dish using crispy fried tempeh cubes and green beans stir-fried with a flavorful blend of garlic, shallots, chili peppers and sweet soy sauces. It's a delicious, comforting and high-protein meal that pairs well with rice.

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Tempeh is one of my favorite vegan protein source which originated from Indonesia. Tempeh is a staple ingredient in Indonesian cuisine, yet I have only tried it after going plant-based. I love its nutty and earthy taste, and it is a nutritious and protein-packed ingredient that will nurture my body and diet.

This Tempe Orek is a traditional Indonesian stir-fry dish, with a balance of texture and a harmonious blend of aromatics and sweet soy sauce.

If you've never heard of tempeh:

• It is a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans. It is created by a natural fermentation process that binds the soybeans into a firm cake-like texture.
• Tempeh has a nutty flavor and a slightly earthy taste.
• It is highly nutritious and a rich source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Tempeh is also known for its versatility and can be used in various dishes as a meat substitute or as a standalone ingredient.

If you enjoy this recipe and would like to cook more with tempeh, also check out Sticky Tempeh and Gado Gado Tempeh Salad!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is:

• A huge flavorbomb: This recipe is savory, sweet, sticky with a hint of spice that will tantalize your taste buds at first bite.
• One pan, easy & quick to make: This recipe can be made in one pan and done in 30 minutes!
• Healthy, nutritious and protein-packed: It's a great way to incorporate protein in your diet and nourish your body with wholesome, delicious food.
• Versatile: Whether you're cooking for your family, entertaining friends on special occasions, or simply treating yourself after a long day of work, this flavorful and wholesome option is sure to hit the spot and leave everyone asking for more.

Ingredients

This recipe uses:

• Tempeh: With its hearty texture, acts as the protein-packed star of this dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

• Oil

• Green beans (fresh or frozen): bring a vibrant and nutritious element to the dish, adding a satisfying crunch.

• Red chili peppers: provide a fiery kick, infusing the dish with a tantalizing level of heat and spice.

• Shallots: add sweetness, enhancing the overall depth of flavors in the dish.

• Garlic: adds a savory note that beautifully complements the other ingredients.

• Lemongrass: releases its fragrant citrusy aroma, infusing the dish with a refreshing and exotic touch.

• Salt & pepper

• Brown sugar: adds a delightful hint of caramel-like sweetness, balancing the savory and spicy elements.

• Sweet soy sauce: provides a luscious glaze and a burst of umami that ties the dish together with its distinct Indonesian flavors

Instructions

1. Cut the tempeh into small cubes and fry them in oil until they turn golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle salt over the fried tempeh cubes.
2. Cut the green beans into pieces, removing the heads.
3. Thinly slice the red chili peppers, green chili peppers, shallots, and garlic. Bruise the lemongrass stalk by gently pressing it with the back of a knife, remove the tough outer layers then thinly slice it.
4. Stir-fry the sliced aromatics in a pan over high heat. Add the brown sugar and green beans to the pan. Season with sweet soy sauce.
5. Continue stir-frying until the green beans are cooked to your desired tenderness and the flavors are well combined.
6. Serve the tempeh and green bean stir-fry hot as a delicious and flavorful dish. Enjoy it as a main course with steamed rice or as a side dish to complement your meal.

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