Gado-Gado is a traditional Indonesian salad that’s bursting with color and flavor. It’s a mix of steamed or blanched vegetables, such as cabbage, green beans, bean sprouts, and potatoes, that are dressed in a rich and creamy peanut sauce. The dish is usually served with boiled eggs, fried tofu, and krupuk (Indonesian crackers).
To make Gado-Gado, you’ll need to prepare the vegetables and protein first. Steam or blanch the vegetables until they’re tender but still crisp. For the protein, you can use boiled eggs, fried tofu, or tempeh. Cut the protein into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Next, prepare the peanut sauce. The sauce is made from roasted peanuts, garlic, chili peppers, palm sugar, tamarind juice, and soy sauce. Blend these ingredients in a food processor or blender until they form a smooth paste. Then, heat up the paste in a pan with coconut milk and stir until the sauce thickens. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
To assemble the salad, arrange the vegetables and protein on a plate and drizzle the peanut sauce over the top. Garnish with krupuk and serve immediately. The dish is best eaten when the vegetables are still warm and the sauce is freshly made.
Gado-Gado is a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy and nutritious. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals from the various vegetables and protein sources. The peanut sauce also provides a good source of protein and healthy fats.
There are many variations of Gado-Gado, depending on the region and personal preferences. Some versions include boiled or blanched noodles, while others use different types of vegetables, such as spinach, cucumber, or carrots. Some also add shrimp or shredded chicken for added protein.
One interesting variation of Gado-Gado is Gado-Gado Pecel. This dish is a combination of Gado-Gado and Pecel, another Indonesian salad that’s dressed in a peanut sauce. Gado-Gado Pecel typically uses more herbs and spices in the peanut sauce, giving it a more complex flavor. It’s a dish that’s popular in Central Java and is often served with rice cakes and crackers.
If you’re looking for a vegan version of Gado-Gado, you can easily omit the boiled eggs and use tofu or tempeh as your protein source. You can also adjust the seasoning and level of spiciness to your liking.
Gado-Gado is a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck party. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which makes it a great option for busy weeknights. So why not give it a try and enjoy the flavors of Indonesia in your own home?
