Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
- 1 bunch of spinach, washed and chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of tamarind paste
- 1 cup of water
Special equipment needed:
- Non-stick pan
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the non-stick pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomato to the pan and cook until it becomes soft.
4. Add the cubed tofu to the pan and cook until it becomes slightly brown.
5. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and stir until it wilts.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the salt, sugar, tamarind paste, and water. Pour the mixture into the pan and stir well.
7. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Remove the cover and stir the mixture again. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
9. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Firm tofu can be substituted with tempeh or seitan.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or collard greens.
- Tamarind paste can be substituted with lime juice or vinegar.
Variations:
- Add sliced carrots or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
- Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier sauce.
- Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Press the tofu before cutting it into cubes to remove excess water and make it firmer.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the tofu from sticking to the bottom.
- Adjust the amount of salt and sugar to your liking.
Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on a bed of rice or noodles and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, or sesame seeds.
Pairings:
Serve with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Stir-fried broccoli, bok choy, or green beans.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) to thicken it.
- If the tofu is too soft, press it for longer before cutting it into cubes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Food history:
Semar Mendem is a traditional Javanese dish that is usually made with meat or seafood. This vegetarian version is a healthier and more sustainable option.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, slightly sweet, and tangy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish with rice or noodles.
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Region: Indonesian