How to Make Indonesian Gorengan Bahwan Crispy and Delicious

 

Crispy and Delicious: How to Make Indonesian Gorengan Bahwan

Gorengan Bahwan is a delightful Indonesian snack known for its crispy exterior and savory filling. This popular street food is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, and it's renowned for its rich flavors and satisfying crunch. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of making this delicious treat at home, ensuring that you can enjoy the authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine anytime you wish.

Ingredients:

To make Gorengan Bahwan, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the filling:

• 200 grams of minced chicken or beef
• 100 grams of tofu, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, finely grated
• 1 medium potato, peeled and grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon of ground white pepper
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil for sautéing

For the batter:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of cold water
• 1 egg

For frying:

• Vegetable oil (enough to submerge the bahwan)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the minced chicken or beef to the pan. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked.
3. Stir in the tofu, grated carrot, and grated potato. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season the mixture with soy sauce, oyster sauce, ground white pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.

2. Prepare the Batter:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Crack the egg into the well and pour in the cold water.
3. Whisk the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the filling but not too runny.

3.  Assemble the Gorengan Bahwan:

1. Take a small spoonful of the cooled filling and shape it into a small ball or oval. Repeat this process until all the filling is used.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to around 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough to fry the bahwan to a crispy texture.
3. Dip each filled ball into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Carefully drop the battered bahwan into the hot oil.
4. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bahwan from the oil and drain on paper towels.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Gorengan Bahwan is best enjoyed hot and crispy. Serve it with a dipping sauce such as sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) or spicy sambal for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh cucumber slices or a simple salad.

Tips for Perfect Gorengan Bahwan:

• Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If the oil is too cool, the bahwan will become greasy; if it's too hot, they may burn before cooking through.
• You can experiment with different fillings, such as adding mushrooms or other vegetables to suit your taste.
• For a healthier version, you can bake the bahwan instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the coated bahwan on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden.

By following these steps, you'll create a batch of Gorengan Bahwan that's both authentic and irresistible. Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a delicious snack, this recipe will bring a taste of Indonesia right to your kitchen. Enjoy!

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