Javanese Tempe Orek

SpiceBreeze

Fried tempeh caramelized in sweet soy sauce and usually chili, creating a perfect balance of rich, sticky, and slightly spicy flavors—adjust the heat to your liking. You can also add finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or green beans, for extra texture and freshness. Best served with warm rice, this dish makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

hands-on time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine East Javanese

Servings

Ingredients

Protein

1 pckg tempeh ^[1] (8-9 oz), cut into small strips

Fresh Produce

2 cloves garlic finely chopped
1 shallot thinly sliced

Optional

1-2 red chilies thinly sliced
2 cups green beans ^[2] trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

Packaged Goods/Staples

1.5 tbsp soy sauce ^[3]
2 tsp sweetener (e.g. agave syrup, honey, or sugar)
oil, salt
rice cooked or steamed

Tempe Orek Spice Kit

1 pouch Galangal, tamarind, lemongrass, mild chili, orange peel

Instructions

Step 1

Deep-fry tempeh until golden and crispy. Scoop them out and set aside to drain.

Step 2

In a PAN, sauté garlic, shallots, and chilies (optional) until fragrant.
Optional, add green beans and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until tender.
In a CUP, mix soy sauce, sweetener, Tempe Orek spices, and 1/4 cup water.
Pour the mixture into the pan and stir until caramelized.
Toss in the fried tempeh and stir-fry until the sauce has thickened and the tempeh is completely coated.
Season with soy sauce and sweetener to taste.

Serve

Serve warm with rice. Optionally, garnish with chili.
Enjoy!

Notes

Alternatives

[1] Thin strips of tofu, chicken, beef, or pork.

[2] Any small cut vegetables of your choice.

[3] Visit on our blog.