Balinese Tempeh

This is a variation of a recipe given to me by Leigh Panlilio, who plays in a Balinese gamelon orchestra, in addition to punk bands. So you know it's good.

Saute 1 large onion chopped fine, together with a one-inch stick of grated or chopped fresh ginger, some chopped green chile, and a large pinch (about 1/4 t) of turmeric. Stir constantly so nothing burns.

When the onion is starting to brown, add 2 to 3 cloves chopped garlic, and saute carefully for a minute, being careful the garlic doesn't burn.

Add 1 package tempeh, crumbled; red chile flakes to taste; and about 1 T soy sauce. (Be careful not to make it too salty.) Fry a minute.

Add 1/2 C ground peanuts or cashews. (But not peanut butter!) Optionally, use 1/2 C whole or chopped peanuts or cashews. Fry a couple minutes.

Add 1 large chopped tomato (or 2 or 3 tomatoes from a can of whole peeled tomatoes, and some of their juice). Fry a couple minutes more.

Serve over rice.

Tell me how you like it.

Jonathan Kandell, Tucson Arizona

jkandell@ccit.arizona.edu