Pepes Tahu with Fragrant Spices

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) firm tofu, cut into small cubes 400g (14 oz) firm tofu, cut into small cubes
• 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized ginger, grated
• 1 thumb-sized turmeric, grated 1 thumb-sized turmeric, grated
• 2 lemongrass stalks, white part only, finely chopped 2 lemongrass stalks, white part only, finely chopped
• 2 red chili peppers, finely chopped 2 red chili peppers, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 kaffir lime leaves, thinly sliced 2 kaffir lime leaves, thinly sliced
• 4 banana leaves, cut into 8x8 inch squares 4 banana leaves, cut into 8x8 inch squares

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 4g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, chili peppers, salt, and sugar to make the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and gently toss until well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Take a piece of banana leaf and briefly pass it over an open flame to make it pliable.
4. 4.
   Place a portion of the marinated tofu in the center of the banana leaf and fold it into a neat package. Secure the edges with toothpicks or string.
5. 5.
   Repeat the process with the remaining tofu and banana leaves.
6. 6.
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
7. 7.
   Grill the Pepes Tahu packages for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the banana leaves are slightly charred and the tofu is cooked through.
8. 8.
   Remove the toothpicks or string before serving.
9. 9.
   Serve hot with steamed rice and garnish with sliced kaffir lime leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tofu — Press the tofu before cutting it into cubes to remove excess moisture and improve its texture.
• Turmeric — Wear gloves when grating turmeric to avoid staining your hands.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have access to banana leaves, you can use parchment paper as a substitute.
• For a spicier kick, add more chili peppers to the marinade.
• Experiment with different types of tofu, such as silken or smoked, to vary the texture and flavor of the dish.
• To enhance the smoky flavor, you can also grill the Pepes Tahu over charcoal.
• Leftover Pepes Tahu can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Simply reheat it in a steamer or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve Pepes Tahu hot with steamed rice and a side of sambal, a spicy Indonesian chili paste. The vibrant colors and aromatic flavors of this dish make it a perfect centerpiece for a traditional Indonesian meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Pepes Tahu packages on a platter, allowing the charred banana leaves to peek through. Garnish with fresh kaffir lime leaves for a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma.