Sayur Lodeh Recipe

 **Sayur Lodeh Recipe**

Sayur Lodeh is a traditional Indonesian vegetable stew, rich in flavor and deeply rooted in the country's culinary history. Originating from Java, this comforting dish features a medley of vegetables simmered in a coconut milk broth, seasoned with aromatic spices. Sayur Lodeh showcases the essence of Indonesian home cooking—simple, nourishing, and delicious. It is often served with rice and enjoyed by families across the archipelago, symbolizing warmth and togetherness.

### History of Sayur Lodeh

Sayur Lodeh has been a staple in Javanese cuisine for centuries, reflecting the island’s abundant agricultural produce and the influence of coconut-based dishes. Historically, it was prepared during special occasions and communal gatherings, symbolizing prosperity and harmony. Over time, the recipe has evolved, incorporating a variety of vegetables and regional spices, but its essence remains the same—a hearty, flavorful stew that brings people together.

### Ingredients:

- 200 grams of young jackfruit, diced

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

- 100 grams of eggplant, diced

- 100 grams of chayote, peeled and diced

- 100 grams of cabbage, chopped

- 2 corn cobs, cut into chunks

- 1 block of tempeh, diced and fried

- 1 block of tofu, diced and fried

- 2 red chilies, sliced

- 3 bay leaves

- 3 kaffir lime leaves

- 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised

- 4 shallots, sliced

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric

- 1 teaspoon of shrimp paste (terasi)

- 2 tablespoons of palm sugar

- Salt to taste

- 1 liter of coconut milk

- 500 ml of water

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Aromatics:** In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced shallots, minced garlic, and sliced red chilies until fragrant. Add the ground coriander, ground turmeric, and shrimp paste, and cook for another minute.

2. **Add the Liquids:** Pour in the coconut milk and water, stirring to combine. Add the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and bruised lemongrass stalks. Bring to a simmer.

3. **Add the Vegetables:** Add the young jackfruit, corn chunks, long beans, eggplant, chayote, and cabbage to the pot. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

4. **Add the Proteins:** Stir in the fried tempeh and tofu, allowing them to heat through and absorb the flavors of the stew.

5. **Season the Stew:** Add the palm sugar and salt, adjusting to taste. Let the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

6. **Serve:** Remove from heat and serve the Sayur Lodeh hot, accompanied by steamed rice and, if desired, additional side dishes like sambal or krupuk (Indonesian crackers).

Sayur Lodeh is a comforting and nutritious dish that captures the heart of Indonesian cuisine. Its rich, coconut-infused broth and tender vegetables make it a favorite in households across the country, embodying the spirit of community and culinary tradition.