Indonesian-Style Stir-Fried Red Chili Tofu with Peanuts

This vegan stir-fry takes inspiration from kering tempeh, a beloved dish at Jakarta’s Warteg Gang Mangga. Traditionally made with crispy fried tempeh tossed in bumbu dasar merah (Indonesian red spice paste), this version uses pressed tofu for better supermarket availability. The tofu batons are coated in turmeric-spiced cornstarch and fried until golden and craggy, then glazed with a jammy sauce made from lemongrass, chilies, and coconut milk. Finished with sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and roasted peanuts, the result is spicy, savory-sweet, and deeply satisfying. ...

December 26, 2025

Gujarati Dal with Peanuts + Star Anise

This dal is my and every other Gujarati’s taste of home. One spoonful and I am transported. It has a more complex taste than most dals due to the subtle jabs of star anise, curry leaves, and lemon, all rounded off with the sweetness of honey. Because of the time it takes to soak and cook toor lentils, this is more of a weekend dish in our house, although a daily staple across Gujarat. ...

April 8, 2025