
Indonesian Gado-Gado Bowl with Spicy Peanut Sauce and Tempeh
A vibrant, veggie-packed bowl bursting with flavor
Gado-Gado is a classic Indonesian salad-like dish featuring an array of fresh and cooked vegetables, protein-rich tempeh, and a luscious spicy peanut sauce.
- 1 h 10 min
- 4
- Intermediate
Ingredients
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce
For the Tempeh
For the Vegetables
For Garnishing
Preparation
Preparing the Spicy Peanut Sauce
Combine ingredients
In a blender, combine peanuts, garlic, chili, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar.
Chef’s Tip: Toast the peanuts in the oven for a deeper flavor in your peanut sauce.
Blend with coconut milk
Blend until smooth, gradually adding coconut milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Important: Make sure the sauce isn't overly thick; it should coat a spoon but pour easily.
Adjust seasoning
Adjust seasoning with more lime juice or soy sauce if needed.
Marinading the Tempeh
Mix marinade
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice, and honey.
Coat tempeh
Add tempeh cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Marinate
Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Pro Tip: Marinate the tempeh longer for a more intense flavor.
Cooking Process
Sauté Tempeh
Heat a non-stick pan and sauté marinated tempeh until golden brown on each side.
Blanch Vegetables
Quickly blanch the cabbage and bean sprouts in boiling water for 1-2 minutes.
Prepare Potatoes
Boil potatoes until tender, then cut into cubes.
Plating & Serving

Indonesian Gado-Gado Bowl with Spicy Peanut Sauce and Tempeh
Indonesian Gado-Gado Bowl with Spicy Peanut Sauce and Tempeh
Plating & Serving
Arrange the vegetables and tempeh in a bowl, drizzle generously with peanut sauce, and garnish with eggs, fried shallots, and cilantro.
Sauce Pairings
Garnishes & Accompaniments
Perfect Sides
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dish ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the peanut sauce and marinate the tempeh a day in advance.
Can I substitute tofu for tempeh?
Absolutely, tofu works well and can be used in place of tempeh in this dish.
Is the peanut sauce gluten-free?
Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free, or substitute it with tamari.
How spicy is the peanut sauce?
The spice level is moderate; adjust the chili amount to your preference.
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Further reading & resources
Curated links to learn more, find ingredients, or explore related content.
