Asinan Betawi
Asinan Betawi is a vibrant and refreshing Jakarta-style pickled salad featuring crisp vegetables, bean sprouts, and fried tofu, all tossed in a tangy, sweet, and spicy peanut sauce. A popular street food, it offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Chinese cabbage (Napa cabbage)
- 200 g Bean sprouts
- 100 g Firm tofu
- 100 g Roasted peanuts
- 100 ml Palm vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 200 ml Water
- 50 g Sugar (palm sugar or granulated)
- 1 tablespoon Salt
- 5-10 pieces Red chilies
- 3 pieces Garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon Shrimp paste (terasi)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the vegetables: Place the chopped Chinese cabbage and rinsed bean sprouts in a large bowl. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of salt. Toss gently to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes to lightly pickle and soften. Drain excess water before serving.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Make the sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the palm vinegar, water, sugar, chopped chilies, garlic cloves, and toasted shrimp paste (if using). Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness, sourness, and spiciness as needed. The sauce should be a balanced sweet-sour and spicy flavor.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Fry the tofu and peanuts: Heat about 2 cm of neutral cooking oil in a wok or deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 175°C / 350°F). Carefully add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown and crisp on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. In the same oil, quickly fry the roasted peanuts for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove and drain. Be careful not to burn them.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Assemble the Asinan: In a large serving bowl, combine the lightly pickled vegetables, fried tofu cubes, and fried peanuts. Pour the prepared sweet-sour sauce over the mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated. For best results, chill for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Serve cold. Garnish with extra peanuts if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic Betawi experience, use palm vinegar if available.
- ✓Adjust the chili quantity to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days (though the vegetables may lose some crispness).
- ✓Ensure tofu is fried until golden and crisp for the best texture contrast.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Asinan Buah: Substitute some or all of the vegetables with firm fruits like pineapple, mango, or jicama.
- Spicier Version: Increase the number of chilies or add bird's eye chilies for extra heat.
- Additions: Some recipes include boiled eggs, cucumber, or salted vegetables.