Ketoprak – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Indonesia Region / Locale: Jakarta Servings: Serves 4
Indonesia Region / Locale: Jakarta Servings: Serves 4Ketoprak is a beloved traditional Indonesian street food that hails from the bustling streets of Jakarta. Known for its simplicity and harmony of flavors, this vegetarian dish offers a refreshing yet satisfying combination of silky rice noodles, crisp bean sprouts, and robust tofu bathed in a delectable peanut sauce. Ketoprak is a celebration of Jakarta’s diverse culinary influences, drawing on the rich traditions of Indonesian cooking with a delightful emphasis on plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients
- Rice noodles – 200 g / 7 oz
- Tofu – 300 g / 10.5 oz
- Bean sprouts – 150 g / 5 oz
- Cucumbers – 2 medium, sliced
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Peanuts – 100 g / 3.5 oz, roasted
- Soy sauce – 3 tbsp
- Palm sugar – 3 tbsp, grated
- Tamarind paste – 1 tbsp
- Red chili peppers – 2, chopped
- Water – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- Salt – to taste
- Cooking oil – for frying
Instructions
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cut the tofu into cubes and fry in cooking oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Blend roasted peanuts, garlic, soy sauce, palm sugar, tamarind paste, chili peppers, and water until smooth to make the peanut sauce.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the noodles, tofu, bean sprouts, and sliced cucumbers.
- Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture and toss well to combine.
- Serve Ketoprak with extra peanuts on top and a lime wedge on the side.
Substitutions
- Rice noodles -> Glass noodles or vermicelli
- Palm sugar -> Brown sugar
- Tamarind paste -> Lime juice
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add kaffir lime leaves to the peanut sauce for a citrusy aroma.
- Include fried shallots as a garnish for added flavor and texture.
- Mix in a dollop of sambal oelek to boost spiciness if desired.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
