How to Customize Gado-Gado to Your Own Taste
Are you tired of sticking to the same old recipes? Why not try something new and customizable like Gado-Gado? This Indonesian dish can easily be customized to suit your individual tastes. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
- 500g of various vegetables like beansprouts, cabbage, potatoes, carrots or cucumbers
- 200g fried tofu or tempeh
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- Lime wedges
- 200g of peanuts
- 2 teaspoons palm sugar (brown sugar works well too)
- 2 cloves garlic
- Chili pepper to taste (omit if you prefer mild flavors)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Clean and prepare all of your vegetables. You can choose any variety of veggies that suits your taste or can even substitute them with some of your favorites that are not traditionally put into Gado-Gado. Boil the veggies in water, removing each type from the pot when they’re done so that they don’t turn mushy.
2. Dice the tofu into small pieces and fry them in oil until golden brown. This will add a crunchy texture to the dish. If you prefer tempeh, you can slice them and put them in boiling water until soft. Once they are easy to smash, then fry them until crisp.
3. Crush the peanuts into a coarse texture using a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Add garlic, palm sugar, chili pepper (if using), and salt to taste. Mix well.
4. Arrange the boiled vegetables and the fried tofu or tempeh on a plate. Cut the hard-boiled eggs into small pieces and top them over the veggies.
5. Pour the peanut sauce over the vegetables and tofu or tempeh. Serve with lime wedges.
Now that you have the basic recipe, there are a few ways to personalize the dish to your liking. Here are some additional tips that you can try:
1. Use different veggies: If you want to add some color and flavor to your dish then try different vegetables like carrots, cherry tomatoes, or avocado.
2. Adjust the spicy level: If you want your version to be mild then excludes the chili powder. If you wish to add more heat, add an extra chili!
3. Experiment with textures: Add unique crunchy textures with bean sprouts or crunchy noodles. Alternatively, add some creaminess or softness to the dish by using creamy spaghetti squash, boiled potatoes, or boiled cassava.
4. Get Creative with the Dressing: The peanut dressing is the heart of Gado-Gado so if you want to try different styles with the base. You can try it with a wedge of cheese, yogurt or even brown sugar.
Try these suggestions and see how it can evolve the whole dish! You can add your favorite flavors and preferences which will make the dish completely unique. Enjoy your customized Gado-Gado dish!