Tasty Food Logo
  • Home
  • Categories
  • About
  • Contact
Indonesian Tempeh Manis with Sweet Soy and Pineapple

Indonesian Tempeh Manis with Sweet Soy and Pineapple


A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors

Indulge in this classic Indonesian dish featuring tempeh coated in a caramelized sweet soy sauce with vibrant pineapple for a fruity twist.

  • 1 h 30 min
  • 4
  • Intermediate

Chef’s Tip: Use fresh pineapple for the best juicy, tangy flavor.

Ingredients

For the Tempeh Marinade

Tempeh
400g, cut into bite-sized cubes
Vegetable oil
3 tbsp
Garlic
4 cloves, minced
Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
2 tbsp
Lime juice
1 tbsp

For the Sweet Soy Sauce

Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
1/2 cup
Brown sugar
1/4 cup
Water
1/4 cup
Tamarind paste
1 tbsp

For the Pineapple

Fresh pineapple
1 cup, cut into chunks
Vegetable oil
1 tbsp
Salt
1/4 tsp
Chef’s Tip:

Preparation


Marinating the Tempeh

1

Combine Tempeh and Marinade

Combine tempeh cubes with garlic, sweet soy sauce, lime juice, and vegetable oil in a bowl.

A pinch of cayenne pepper in the marinade can add a spicy kick.

2

Toss and Marinate

Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for 30 minutes.

3

Ensure Even Absorption

Stir occasionally to ensure flavors are absorbed.

Preparing the Pineapple

1

Heat Oil

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.

2

Add Pineapple and Salt

Add pineapple chunks and sprinkle with salt.

3

Sauté Pineapple

Sauté until golden brown and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.

Do not overcook the pineapple as it can become mushy.

Cooking Process


1

Preparing the Sweet Soy Sauce

In a saucepan, mix sweet soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and tamarind paste. Simmer until slightly thickened.

2

Cooking the Tempeh

Pan-fry the marinated tempeh in a skillet over medium heat until evenly browned.

3

Combining Ingredients

Add the sauce to the tempeh, gently stir in the pineapple chunks, and let it simmer until flavors meld.

Never leave hot oil unattended. Keep a lid nearby …

Plating & Serving


Indonesian Tempeh Manis with Sweet Soy and Pineapple

Indonesian Tempeh Manis with Sweet Soy and Pineapple

Indonesian Tempeh Manis with Sweet Soy and Pineapple

FaUtensils

Serving Suggestion

Serve the tempeh and pineapple hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and fried shallots for an aromatic and flavorful presentation.

Sauce Pairings

Extra sweet soy sauce
For drizzling
Chilli sauce
On the side for heat

Garnishes & Accompaniments

Chopped cilantroFried shallotsSliced green onionsLime wedges

Perfect Sides

Jasmine rice
Stir-fried green beans

Chef's Final Touch

Use fresh pineapple for the best juicy, tangy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

    Yes, but fresh pineapple provides a better texture and flavor.

  • How long can I store leftovers?

    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Can this dish be made ahead?

    Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the tempeh up to a day in advance.

  • Can I substitute the tempeh with tofu?

    Absolutely, tofu is a great alternative and absorbs the flavors well.

  • What can I use instead of tamarind paste?

    A mix of lime juice and a touch of brown sugar can serve as a substitute.

Related recipes


More dishes you might like — same culture, meal type, or style.

  • Afghan Tandoori Lamb Chops with Citrus Yogurt Drizzle

    Afghan Tandoori Lamb Chops with Citrus Yogurt Drizzle

    A fragrant lamb dish infused with exotic spices

  • Afghani Kabuli Pulao with Tender Lamb and Golden Raisins

    Afghani Kabuli Pulao with Tender Lamb and Golden Raisins

    A fragrant and savory rice dish with hints of sweetness

  • African Hazel Cocoa Spiced Chicken with Plantain Mash

    African Hazel Cocoa Spiced Chicken with Plantain Mash

    A Fusion of Rich African Spices and Sweet Plantain Flavors

  • African Ndolé with Crushed Peanuts and Spicy Prawns

    African Ndolé with Crushed Peanuts and Spicy Prawns

    Delightful Cameroonian Stew

  • African Peanut Butter and Honey Chicken Skewers with Fresh Pineapple Slices

    African Peanut Butter and Honey Chicken Skewers with Fresh Pineapple Slices

    A Sweet and Savory Grilled Delight

  • African Peri Peri Chicken with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

    African Peri Peri Chicken with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

    A Spicy Delight with a Sweet Tropical Twist

TastyFood

Delicious recipes for home cooks at every skill level.

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Categories
  • About
  • Contact

Categories

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Desserts
  • Seafood

Contact Us

  • info@culinarycanvas.com
  • (123) 456-7890
  • 123 Cooking Street
    Foodie City, FC 12345

© 2026 TastyFood. All rights reserved.