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Learn how to make Tumis Buncis Tempe, a classic Indonesian stir-fry packed with crispy green beans and savory tempeh. A simple, nutritious, and budget-friendly dish ready in minutes!
About the Dish
Tumis Buncis Tempe is a classic Indonesian home-cooked dish that is simple, practical, and packed with nutrition — making it a reliable everyday staple across households and local warungs alike. The combination of crispy green beans and savory tempeh creates a well-balanced dish that brings together fresh vegetables and a plant-based protein source in one satisfying plate.
What makes this dish especially interesting is its use of tempeh — Indonesia’s iconic traditional fermented food that is not only easy to digest but also rich in nutrients. The green beans, on the other hand, add a refreshing texture and natural fiber that complements the hearty tempeh perfectly. Since the ingredients are easy to find and the cooking process is quick, Tumis Buncis Tempe has become a go-to plant-based side dish for daily meals.
Key Ingredients and Their Role
Tempeh is the star of this dish. As a traditional Indonesian fermented soybean product, it brings a deep, savory flavor and a firm texture that holds up well to stir-frying. Pre-frying the tempeh before adding it to the stir-fry gives it a slightly crispy exterior that absorbs the seasoning beautifully.
Green Beans (Buncis) provide the fresh, crunchy contrast that balances the dish. They are rich in dietary fiber and cook quickly, maintaining a vibrant color and satisfying bite even after being stir-fried with the other ingredients.
Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis) ties everything together with a touch of sweetness and a rich, glossy coating that gives the dish its characteristic Indonesian flavor profile. Combined with oyster sauce, it creates a savory-sweet sauce that clings to every piece of tempeh and green bean.
Ingredients
- 1 block of tempeh, cut into cubes
- Green beans, as needed, sliced diagonally
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp seasoning powder
- 2 tsp sugar
- Sweet soy sauce, to taste
- Oyster sauce, to taste
- Approximately 200 ml water
- Cooking oil, as needed
- 4 cloves garlic
- 6 shallots
- 8 red chilies
- 1 tomato
Instructions
- Cut the tempeh into cubes. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, then fry the tempeh until half-cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Slice the green beans diagonally, rinse thoroughly, and drain.
- Mince or slice the garlic, shallots, red chilies, and tomato.
- Heat a small amount of oil in the pan, then sauté the shallots and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the green beans and stir-fry until they begin to wilt and turn a brighter green.
- Add the fried tempeh and stir until everything is well combined.
- Season with salt, seasoning powder, sugar, sweet soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Mix well.
- Pour in the water, then add the chilies and tomato. Cook until the seasoning is fully absorbed and the liquid has slightly reduced.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, remove from heat, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestion
Tumis Buncis Tempe is best enjoyed warm alongside a bowl of steamed white rice. For a more complete meal, pair it with a fried egg, another vegetable dish, or a bowl of clear soup. It also pairs wonderfully with sambal for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.
Love Indonesian Food? You'll Love the Language Too
Learning to cook traditional Indonesian dishes like Tumis Buncis Tempe is a delicious way to deepen your connection with the language and culture. If you are learning Indonesian and want to go beyond the classroom — whether through food, conversation, or culture — BASANTARA is here to guide you. We offer Indonesian language courses designed specifically for foreigners, from beginners to advanced learners. Get in touch with us today and start your Indonesian journey!
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