Sayur Asem Recipe

 

**Sayur Asem Recipe**

Sayur Asem, a classic Indonesian sour vegetable soup, is a beloved dish that offers a refreshing and tangy flavor. Originating from the Sundanese and Javanese regions, Sayur Asem is known for its unique blend of tamarind and assorted vegetables. This traditional soup not only provides a delightful taste but also showcases the simplicity and depth of Indonesian home cooking. The history of Sayur Asem is deeply rooted in the agricultural lifestyle of Java, where fresh vegetables and tamarind are readily available, making it a staple in many households.

### History of Sayur Asem

Sayur Asem has been a part of Indonesian culinary heritage for centuries, particularly in Java and Sundanese regions. It reflects the agrarian culture, using locally grown vegetables and the distinctive sourness from tamarind. The dish has evolved over time, incorporating various local ingredients, but its essence remains the same—a light, tangy soup that complements the warm, tropical climate of Indonesia. Sayur Asem is often enjoyed during family meals and communal gatherings, symbolizing togetherness and the abundance of nature.

### Ingredients:

- 200 grams of melinjo (Gnetum gnemon) leaves

- 200 grams of young jackfruit, diced

- 100 grams of long beans, cut into 5 cm pieces

- 100 grams of corn, cut into chunks

- 100 grams of chayote, peeled and diced

- 2 tomatoes, quartered

- 3 tamarind pods, soaked in water (or 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste)

- 3 bay leaves

- 3 kaffir lime leaves

- 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised

- 4 shallots, sliced

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 red chilies, sliced

- 1 teaspoon of shrimp paste (terasi)

- 2 tablespoons of palm sugar

- Salt to taste

- 1.5 liters of water

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Tamarind Water:** If using tamarind pods, soak them in 1 cup of warm water for 10 minutes, then squeeze to extract the juice. Strain and set aside.

2. **Boil the Water:** In a large pot, bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil. Add the tamarind juice or paste, bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.

3. **Add the Vegetables:** Add the young jackfruit, corn, long beans, chayote, and melinjo leaves to the pot. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced shallots, minced garlic, and red chilies until fragrant. Add the shrimp paste and cook for another minute.

5. **Combine and Season:** Add the sautéed aromatics to the pot of vegetables. Stir in the palm sugar and salt, adjusting to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

6. **Add Tomatoes:** Add the quartered tomatoes to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

7. **Serve:** Remove from heat and serve the Sayur Asem hot, either as a main dish or as a side to accompany rice and other Indonesian dishes.

Sayur Asem is a delightful way to experience the flavors of Indonesia, offering a perfect balance of sour, sweet, and savory notes. This nutritious and light soup is ideal for any meal, providing a taste of Indonesia’s rich culinary tradition.