Gudeg Rasa

Introduction to Gudeg Rasa

Gudeg Rasa is a traditional Indonesian dish originating from the cultural heartland of Yogyakarta, Central Java. This iconic meal is steeped in rich history and flavor, celebrated for its use of sweet young jackfruit, locally known as nangka. With a history dating back to the reign of the Mataram Kingdom, Gudeg was initially popularized as a vegetarian delicacy suitable for plant-based royal feasts. Over time, the dish has evolved to incorporate a variety of proteins, allowing it to appeal to a broader audience. Today, Gudeg Rasa is a staple of Javanese cuisine, offering a seductive blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic notes.

Ingredients

• Young jackfruit (nangka) - 1.5 kg
• Coconut milk - 1 liter
• Palm sugar - 100 grams
• Shallots - 8 pieces
• Garlic - 4 cloves
• Coriander seeds - 1 tsp
• Candlenut - 3 pieces
• Bay leaves - 4 pieces
• Lemongrass - 2 stalks, bruised
• Galangal - 5 cm piece, bruised
• Salt - to taste
• Boiled eggs - 6, peeled
• Tempeh - 200 grams
• Tamarind paste - 1 tbsp

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the nangka: slice into manageable pieces and remove any seeds. Rinse well in water to eliminate excess sap.

2. In a mortar and pestle, or a food processor, grind the shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, and candlenut into a smooth spice paste.

3. Prepare the tempeh by cutting it into bite-sized cubes and setting aside for later use.

4. In a small bowl, mix the tamarind paste with a little water to create a tamarind water solution.

Cooking Instructions

Step-by-step Cooking

1. In a large pot, add the prepared young jackfruit along with the spice paste, bay leaves, bruised lemongrass, and galangal.

2. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

3. Add the palm sugar and stir well to dissolve, allowing a delicate sweetness to infuse the young jackfruit.

4. Gently add your prepared boiled eggs and tempeh to the pot.

5. Season with salt to taste and add the tamarind water.

6. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and allow the ingredients to cook slowly, letting the nangka absorb the flavors. Stir occasionally.

7. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the young jackfruit is tender and the sauce has thickened. Check using a cooking timer to ensure precise timing.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, Gudeg Rasa is served with warm rice, creating a balance between the sweetness of the jackfruit and the savory accompaniments. For an authentic experience, you can serve it along with sambal (spicy chili paste) and crispy fried shallots as garnishes.

Conclusion

Embrace the flavors of Yogyakarta by indulging in Gudeg Rasa. This culinary masterpiece delivers a taste of history and showcases the endearing complexity of Indonesian fare. Pair it with traditional sides for a full, delectable experience sure to delight your palette.