How to Make Vegetarian Indonesian Roast 'Pork' with Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Vegetarian Indonesian Roast 'Pork' with Rice, known locally as 'Babi Panggang Indonesia Beras', is a creative plant-based take on a Malaysian favourite from the Indonesian community, commonly enjoyed in Malacca and Penang. This dish features marinated and roasted tofu or tempeh, infused with local herbs like serai (lemongrass) and daun pandan, delivering all the classic flavours without any meat. Served with fluffy jasmine rice, fresh cucumber, and a tangy sambal, it’s a vibrant choice for lunch. Malaysia's rich multicultural food scene is beautifully showcased in this meal, blending Indonesian spices and Chinese roasting techniques with local ingredients. The result is a satisfying, hearty lunch that appeals to vegetarians and health-conscious Malaysians alike. The complex, aromatic marinade and the use of santan (coconut milk) and local spices highlight Malaysia’s love for bold, layered flavours. Ideal for those looking for a lighter alternative to traditional roast pork, this dish packs all the umami and texture, making it a favourite among both vegetarians and meat-eaters.
Bahan
Arahan langkah demi langkah
Step 1 · Press and slice the tofu or tempeh into thick strips
Press and slice the tofu or tempeh into thick strips. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Step 2 · Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce
Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped serai, and white pepper in a bowl. Coat tofu/tempeh thoroughly and let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Step 3 · While marinating
While marinating, rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear. Add rice to a pot with santan, water (according to package instructions), and daun pandan. Cook until fluffy.
Step 4 · Preheat oven or air fryer to 200°C
Preheat oven or air fryer to 200°C. Arrange marinated tofu/tempeh on a lined tray. Roast for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy at the edges.
Step 5 · Slice cucumber and prepare sambal or chili sauce for serving
Slice cucumber and prepare sambal or chili sauce for serving.
Step 6 · To serve
To serve, plate rice, arrange roasted tofu/tempeh on top, and garnish with cucumber slices and sambal.
Mengapa resipi ini sihat
By substituting roast pork with tofu or tempeh, this recipe significantly lowers saturated fat and cholesterol while boosting protein and fibre intake. The use of jasmine rice in moderate portions paired with abundant fresh vegetables ensures sustained energy and satiety without excess calories. Roasting instead of frying further reduces oil content, supporting a balanced, heart-healthy Malaysian diet.
Nota tentang tradisi
This dish pays homage to Malaysia’s Indonesian community, particularly in Malacca and Penang, where roast pork dishes are reimagined with local flavours for vegetarians. It's often enjoyed during family lunches or festive gatherings, reflecting Malaysia’s blend of cultures. The use of pandan, lemongrass, and santan highlights the local palate and the tradition of adapting classic dishes to suit modern diets.