🇮🇩 Indonesian Cuisine · Street Food

Martabak

Prep

20 mins

Cook

20 mins

Serves

4

Difficulty

Medium

A thick folded pancake sold in savory versions with spiced minced beef and egg, or sweet with chocolate and cheese.

Ingredients

  • 700g large prawns
  • 2 cups fried shallot crackers (krupuk)
  • 2 tsp sliced galangal
  • a pinch of tamarind paste
  • 3 tbsp coconut oil
  • 200g chayote
  • a handful of fresh Thai basil, chopped
  • roasted peanuts, for serving
  • 400ml tamarind water

Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the jasmine rice base and set it aside to rest while you get the filling ready.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the tempeh, shallots, sliced galangal, and coriander seeds, mixing well so everything is evenly seasoned.

  3. 3

    Heat coconut oil in a skillet, wok, or on a griddle over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  4. 4

    Cook the jasmine rice until lightly golden on each side, then transfer to a warm plate.

  5. 5

    Fry, grill, or steam the tempeh mixture until cooked through and lightly charred at the edges, about 20 mins.

  6. 6

    Assemble by layering the jasmine rice with the filling, a spoonful of crispy fried shallots, and a scattering of Thai basil.

  7. 7

    Add a final touch of roasted peanuts for extra flavor and texture.

Tips

Keep the coconut oil hot but not smoking — a thermometer helps you nail the perfect frying or grilling temperature.

Serve immediately for the best contrast between a crisp exterior and a warm, tender filling.