If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors and hearty plant-based meals, this Sambal Goreng Tempeh recipe is for you! A classic Indonesian dish, Sambal Goreng combines crispy tempeh with a rich, spicy sambal sauce. It’s perfect as a main dish or a side, and it’s vegan and gluten-free (if using tamari). Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-Packed: A perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.
- Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Healthy and Nutritious: Tempeh is rich in protein, fiber, and probiotics.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or as a side dish.
What is Sambal Goreng?
Sambal Goreng is a traditional Indonesian dish made with a spicy sambal sauce, often featuring ingredients like tempeh, tofu, or vegetables. The word “goreng” means “fried,” and “sambal” refers to the spicy chili paste that forms the base of the dish.
Ingredients
For the Tempeh
- 1 block (8 oz / 250g) tempeh, cut into small cubes or thin strips
- 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
For the Sambal Sauce
- 4-5 red chilies (adjust to your spice level)
- 3 shallots (or 1 small onion), peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tsp tamarind paste (or 1 tbsp lime juice)
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric (optional, for color)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or fried shallots
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Tempeh
- Cut the tempeh into small cubes or thin strips.
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the tempeh until golden and crispy on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Sambal Paste
- In a food processor or blender, combine red chilies, shallots, garlic, and tomato. Blend until smooth.
- If using green beans or carrots, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Sambal Sauce
- In the same pan used for frying the tempeh, add the blended sambal paste. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the paste darkens and becomes fragrant.
- Add tamari, coconut sugar, tamarind paste, salt, and turmeric (if using). Stir well.
- Pour in 1/2 cup water and mix to create a thick sauce.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the fried tempeh (and blanched vegetables, if using) to the sambal sauce. Stir to coat evenly.
- Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add more water if the sauce is too thick.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Transfer the Sambal Goreng Tempeh to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or fried shallots.
- Serve warm with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Tips for Success
- Adjust Spice Level: Use fewer chilies for a milder dish or add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.
- Steam the Tempeh: If you prefer a softer texture, steam the tempeh for 10 minutes before frying.
- Make It Ahead: The flavors deepen if made ahead of time, making it a great dish for meal prep.
- Add Protein: Mix in fried tofu or boiled eggs for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the spiciness.
- Enjoy as a side dish with other Indonesian favorites like Nasi Goreng or Gado-Gado.
Why Tempeh?
Tempeh is a fermented soy product that’s not only high in protein but also rich in probiotics, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. Its nutty flavor and firm texture make it perfect for absorbing bold flavors like sambal.
Final Thoughts
This Sambal Goreng Tempeh recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy, flavorful food. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re new to Indonesian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to impress!
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking! 😊
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