Vegetarian > India > Semar Mendems

Semar Mendem with Potato and Peas Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp palm sugar
- 2 kaffir lime leaves
- 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
- 1 red chili, sliced
- 1 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, and salt to the pot and stir well.
3. Add the potatoes and peas to the pot and stir to coat them in the spices.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, palm sugar, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, chili, tamarind paste, and water. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Remove the kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass from the pot.
7. Serve the Semar Mendem hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.

30-40 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving size: 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Frozen peas can be substituted with fresh or canned peas.
- Palm sugar can be substituted with brown sugar or honey.
- Tamarind paste can be substituted with lime juice.

Variations:
- Add chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use different vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or bell peppers.
- Make it spicier by adding more chili or red pepper flakes.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Serve with rice or bread to soak up the sauce.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover Semar Mendem in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the Semar Mendem in a pot over low heat until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Semar Mendem in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with cilantro leaves.

Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro leaves

Pairings:
- Serve with rice or bread.

Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more water or coconut milk.
- If the potatoes are not cooked through, simmer for a few more minutes until tender.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the Semar Mendem to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Semar Mendem is a traditional Indonesian dish that originated in Java.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Semar Mendem as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

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Region: Indonesian

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Aromatic