Tofu & Tempe

Growing up in Indonesia, tempeh was a staple in my household. It was versatile, affordable, and packed with nutrition. My mother always ensured we had fresh tempeh from the local market, which became a core ingredient in our meals. But while tempeh could be prepared in many ways—grilled, stir-fried, or added to stews—nothing was as special as Tempe Mendoan. The process of making Tempe Mendoan was almost ritualistic. My mother would carefully slice the tempeh into thin rectangular pieces, mix the batter with just the right blend of spices, and heat the oil to the perfect temperature. She always knew when to …

Kering Tempe is an Indonesian dish with a special place in my heart. Growing up, my mother would often pack this dish for me when I lived in a dormitory in Yogyakarta. If the food prepared at the dorm wasn’t to my liking, I could always count on the delicious Kering Tempe to fill me up. The crispy fried tempeh, crunchy peanuts, and savory-sweet sticky sauce made it the perfect comfort food. I would pair it with rice, which instantly became my favorite meal. Kering means “crispy” in Indonesian, perfectly describing the dish’s texture. The tempeh is fried until golden …

Terik tahu tempe is a traditional Indonesian dish that is accidentally vegan. It is rich in coconut milk, with a hint of sweetness and traditional Indonesian spices. If you are bored with your regular cooking method for tofu and tempeh, try this recipe. If you grow up eating Indonesian food, you should realize there are many types of curry, and terik is one of them. Other types of curry in Indonesia are gulai (view my jackfruit gulai recipe here), lodeh, and opor (I will share both recipes later in another post). “I have no idea what Terik Tahu Tempe is” …

Tahu tempe bacem is a humble yet iconic dish deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Yogyakarta and Central Java, Indonesia. Known for its harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish epitomizes the rich cultural heritage of Javanese cuisine. At its core, tahu tempe bacem showcases the ingenious use of simple, affordable ingredients like tofu and tempeh, which are transformed into a flavorful delight through a unique cooking technique called bacem. This dish holds a special place in the hearts of many Indonesians, often evoking memories of home-cooked meals and bustling traditional markets. A Dish Steeped in Tradition …

Indonesian cuisine is a celebration of vibrant flavors, complex textures, and unique culinary techniques that are a testament to the rich history and diverse culture of the Indonesian archipelago. Pepes Tahu is a beloved and flavorful choice among the many dishes representing this colorful food culture. Pepes Tahu, which translates to “steamed tofu in banana leaves,” combines tofu with a fragrant mixture of herbs, spices, and seasonings, all wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors and reflects the ingenuity of Indonesian cooking in its simplest and most delicious form. …