Irresistible Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Discover the authentic taste of Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce, a vibrant, healthy salad packed with fresh veggies and rich flavors. This iconic Indonesian dish perfectly balances crunchy vegetables, boiled eggs, and tofu with a creamy, spicy peanut sauce that ties everything together into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome lunch, a colorful dinner, or a unique way to impress guests, Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce brings freshness and boldness to your table in every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, legumes, and protein for a well-rounded meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The rich peanut sauce combines sweet, savory, and spicy notes for an unforgettable taste.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an approachable recipe for all skill levels.
• Perfect for Customization: Adaptable to your favorite veggies, proteins, and spice preferences with ease.
• Colorful and Eye-Catching: A vibrant mix of textures and colors that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce is a breeze with fresh, easy-to-find ingredients. Each plays a vital role in achieving the perfect harmony of flavor and texture, from the crisp vegetables to the creamy peanut sauce that coats the salad beautifully.

• Fresh Vegetables: A medley of cabbage, cucumber, bean sprouts, and green beans for crunch and nutrition.
• Boiled Eggs: Adds rich protein and a creamy texture that balances the salad.
• Tofu or Tempeh: Provides additional plant-based protein and absorbs the peanut sauce wonderfully.
• Rice Cakes or Lontong: Traditional Indonesian rice cakes add heartiness and authenticity.
• Peanut Sauce Ingredients: Peanuts, garlic, chili, tamarind, palm sugar, and lime juice create the signature sauce’s sweet, tangy, and spicy profile.
• Fried Shallots: For a crispy garnish that adds an irresistible crunch.
• Crackers or Kerupuk: Optional but highly recommended for texture contrast and visual appeal.

Variations for Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

Feel free to make Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce your own by mixing up the ingredients and adjusting the flavors. This dish is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tailor it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Protein Swap: Replace tofu with grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian twist.
• Vegetable Variety: Add or substitute with spinach, kale, carrots, or potatoes to suit your mood.
• Heat Level: Adjust chili quantity or use mild chili paste to control spiciness.
• Peanut Sauce Texture: Make the sauce smoother or chunkier, depending on your preference.
• Vegan Adaptation: Omit eggs and use tempeh for a fully plant-based meal.

How to Make Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash all fresh vegetables thoroughly. Boil or lightly steam the green beans and cabbage until just tender but still crisp. Slice the cucumber and arrange all vegetables on a serving platter.

Step 2: Cook the Protein

Boil eggs until hard-boiled, peel, and slice. Lightly fry the tofu or tempeh until golden brown for a chewy texture and deeper flavor. Place them alongside the vegetables for easy assembling.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peanuts, garlic, fresh chili, tamarind paste, palm sugar, lime juice, and a bit of water. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Drizzle the peanut sauce generously over the arranged vegetables, eggs, and tofu. Toss gently if preferred or serve with sauce on the side to maintain crispness.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with crispy fried shallots and kerupuk crackers for crunch. Serve immediately to enjoy the rich flavors and textures at their best.

Pro Tips for Making Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

• Roast Your Own Peanuts: Toast peanuts at home for a fresher, deeper nutty flavor in your sauce.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust lime juice and palm sugar gradually to achieve the perfect sweet and sour mix.
• Texture Matters: Keep vegetables crisp by steaming lightly or serving some raw for variety.
• Chill Ingredients: Cool boiled veggies and eggs before assembling to keep the salad refreshing.
• Use Fresh Chili: Fresh chili enhances flavor and heat far better than dried powders.

How to Serve Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

Garnishes

Sprinkle crispy fried shallots and fresh chopped cilantro or scallions on top for added aroma and texture that elevate the dish instantly.

Side Dishes

Pair Indonesian Gado Gado with steamed jasmine rice or simple coconut rice to round out the meal, or accompany it with a refreshing cucumber salad to complement the rich sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual bowls layered beautifully with all ingredients, or present it on a large platter family-style to encourage sharing and conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover vegetables and peanut sauce separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to avoid sogginess and maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for the fresh vegetables due to texture loss, but the peanut sauce can be frozen in a sealed container for up to one month.

Reheating

Reheat peanut sauce gently on the stove and serve it warm over cold, fresh vegetables, or toss the veggies lightly in the warm sauce right before serving.

FAQs

What is Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce?

It is a traditional Indonesian salad made of fresh and steamed vegetables served with boiled eggs, tofu, and a rich peanut sauce dressing.

Is Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce spicy?

The dish has a mild to moderate level of spice from fresh chilies, but you can easily adjust the heat to suit your taste.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the peanut sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Is Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce gluten-free?

Traditionally, it is gluten-free, but always check if you include soy sauce or other packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

What can I substitute for lontong or rice cakes?

If unavailable, you can use cooked and cooled rice or even boiled potatoes as a hearty base alternative.

Final Thoughts

Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce is such a delightful and wholesome meal that brings vibrant colors, diverse textures, and rich flavors together in perfect harmony. Once you try this recipe, it quickly becomes a favorite for sharing with family and friends. Give it a go and savor the authentic taste of Indonesia from the comfort of your own kitchen!

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