Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of roasted peanuts filled the air, reminding me of sun-drenched markets in Indonesia where the vibrant Gado Gado salad first caught my eye. This delightful dish is a celebration of fresh vegetables intertwined with a rich, creamy peanut sauce that’s both healthful and satisfying. What I love most about Gado Gado is its versatility—you can mix and match vegetables based on what’s in your fridge, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a colorful side dish for gatherings. Not only is this salad a fantastic way to pack in nutrients, but it also comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy home cooks. Are you curious about how to whip up this vibrant Indonesian classic that will impress and nourish? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Gado Gado a Must-Try? Simplicity: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Vibrant Flavors: A combination of fresh vegetables and a creamy peanut sauce creates a delightful taste that’s both satisfying and exciting. Versatile: You can easily customize Gado Gado by using whatever veggies you have on hand, ensuring no two salads are alike! Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein from tempeh and healthy fats from peanut butter, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side, it appeals to both veggie lovers and those looking to make healthier choices. Meal Prep Friendly: The peanut sauce can be made ahead and stored, making it easy to prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the week. Gado Gado Ingredients For the Peanut Sauce • Natural Peanut Butter – Provides the base for the sauce; use pure peanut butter for stronger flavor. • Red Curry Paste – Adds umami and depth; the Maesri brand is recommended for the best quality. • Kecap Manis – A sweet Indonesian soy sauce to thicken the sauce; honey mixed with dark soy can be an easy substitution. • Sambal Oelek (or other chili paste) – Introduces heat; adjust according to your spice preference. • Salt – Enhances flavor. • Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; press using a garlic press for even distribution. • Lime Juice – Provides acidity to balance the richness; may substitute with cider vinegar or white vinegar. • Coconut Milk – Contributes creaminess; full-fat coconut milk is best for rich texture. • Water – Adjusts sauce consistency. For the Salad • Spinach – Adds freshness and blanches well. • Beansprouts – Provide crunch and a fresh element. • Potato – Acts as a filling starch; boil and cut into cubes or slices. • Cucumber – Offers crispness; slice diagonally for visual appeal. • Boiled Eggs – Adds protein and richness; serve halved. • Vegetable Oil – Used for frying tempeh or tofu. • Tempeh (or Firm Tofu) – Provides plant-based protein; can substitute tofu if desired. • Chopped Peanuts and Red Chili (for garnish) – Adds texture and a touch of heat; sprinkle generously. Optional Crunch • Prawn Crackers – Offers a crunchy texture; fry or microwave for a no-fry option. The ingredients of Gado Gado combine beautifully to create a dish that is not only nourishing but also a treat for your taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gado Gado Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Sauce In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of natural peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of red curry paste, 3 tablespoons of kecap manis, 1 tablespoon of sambal oelek, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Pour in ½ cup of coconut milk and ¼ cup of water. Simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for a velvety peanut sauce. Step 2: Blanch the Vegetables Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add potato cubes. Cook for 5 minutes, then use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a colander. Next, add the beansprouts to the same boiling water and blanch for 3 minutes, followed by adding the spinach until just wilted, which takes about 1 minute. Drain the vegetables thoroughly and set them aside to cool. Step 3: Fry the Tempeh Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Slice 7 ounces of tempeh into bite-sized pieces and carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tempeh from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping it warm. Step 4: Assemble the Salad On a large serving platter, arrange the blanched vegetables, sliced cucumber, and halved boiled eggs. Start from one side and layer for an appealing presentation. Drizzle a generous amount of your creamy peanut sauce over the top and sprinkle chopped peanuts and red chili for added flair. This colorful Gado Gado salad is now ready to be shared! Step 5: Serve with Prawn Crackers For an extra crunch, serve Gado Gado alongside a bowl of crispy prawn crackers. You can either fry them or microwave for a healthier option. This delightful combination adds a tasty contrast to the creamy peanut sauce and fresh vegetables, making your meal more enjoyable. Make Ahead Options Gado Gado is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can make the peanut sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container, then reheat gently before serving to ensure it maintains its velvety texture. The blanched vegetables, like potatoes, spinach, and beansprouts, can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead—store them in the fridge with a damp paper towel to keep them fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the tempeh or tofu, assemble your salad, and drizzle that creamy peanut sauce on top for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Enjoy a nourishing meal without the last-minute rush! What to Serve with Gado Gado? Gado Gado is a delightful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks, creating a full and satisfying meal experience. Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the rich peanut sauce, providing a soft, fluffy contrast that rounds out the flavors perfectly. It’s a traditional pairing that elevates this dish to new heights. Spicy Grilled Tofu: Offering an additional layer of protein, the smoky, spicy flavors of grilled tofu harmonize with the creamy salad while adding a delightful texture. Mango Salad: The sweetness of ripe mango balances the savory elements of Gado Gado, adding a refreshing twist that brightens each bite. It’s a seasonal favorite that’s hard to resist! Coconut Lemongrass Soup: This warm, aromatic soup brings a soothing element to the meal, with flavors that resonate with the Indonesian roots of Gado Gado, creating a harmonious dining experience. Sambal Rice Crackers: For a crunchy side, serve spicy sambal rice crackers that boost the texture profile and spice level to match your Gado Gado. A perfect balance of crunch and flavor! Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and light, chilled green tea offers a cleansing palate experience, complementing the richness of the peanut sauce without overwhelming the dish. These pairings will not only enhance your Gado Gado but also transform your meal into a delightful culinary journey! Gado Gado Variations & Substitutions Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dish with these creative variations that will elevate your Gado Gado experience! Vegetable Swap: Use a mix of seasonal favorites like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli for a colorful twist. This ensures you get a beautiful array of flavors and textures. Dairy-Free Option: Replace tempeh with crispy fried tofu for a delightful texture. This simple swap keeps your meal vegetarian while adding protein. Sweet Addition: Toss in diced mango for a hint of sweetness that balances the richness of the peanut sauce. The juicy fruit adds a refreshing contrast. Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to enhance aroma and freshness. These vibrant herbs bring a bright flavor profile to the salad. Heat Level: Adjust the spice by adding more sambal oelek or sliced fresh jalapeños based on your heat preference. Spice lovers will appreciate the kick! Crunchy Topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle some roasted chickpeas on top. They provide a satisfying texture and pack an additional nutritional punch. No Peanut Butter: Substitute with almond butter if you prefer a different nut flavor. It’s creamy and complements the other ingredients beautifully. Serving Ideas: Pair your Gado Gado with a side of coconut rice for a complete meal. The creamy rice complements the salad’s vibrant flavors perfectly. Expert Tips for Gado Gado Natural Peanut Butter: Use the best quality peanut butter with no additives for an authentic and robust flavor that elevates your Gado Gado. Monitor Consistency: Keep an eye on your peanut sauce; if it becomes too thick, gradually add a little water to reach the desired creaminess without losing flavor. Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Blanching is key! Cook until just tender to ensure your vegetables maintain a nice crunch, adding delightful texture to the Gado Gado. Fry for Crispiness: If using tofu, lightly coat it with flour before frying to enhance its crisp factor, giving your salad an irresistible crunch. Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the garnishes; sprinkle chopped peanuts and red chili over the salad for a burst of flavor and visual appeal, making your dish feel finished. Explore Variations: Get creative! Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonal vegetables or fruits like mango for unique twists on this classic Gado Gado. Storage Tips for Gado Gado Fridge: Store leftover Gado Gado in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the peanut sauce separate from the vegetables to maintain freshness and texture. Freezer: You can freeze the peanut sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. Reheating: When reheating cooked vegetables, do so in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, just until warmed through to preserve their crunch. Meal Prep: For easy meal prep, keep uncooked vegetables and the peanut sauce stored separately; this allows you to whip up a fresh Gado Gado any day of the week! Gado Gado Recipe FAQs What vegetables are best for Gado Gado? Absolutely! Gado Gado is all about versatility, so you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Common choices include boiled potatoes, fresh spinach, beansprouts, and cucumber. But you can also use carrots, broccoli, or even bell peppers for a colorful twist. The key is to mix both blanched and fresh vegetables for texture and flavor. How should I store leftover Gado Gado? For the best freshness, store any leftover Gado Gado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the peanut sauce separate from the vegetables to preserve their crunchiness. When ready to enjoy, you can simply drizzle the peanut sauce over the vegetables again before serving. Can I freeze the peanut sauce? Yes, you can freeze the peanut sauce! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to use it, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it’s become too thick. This way, you have a quick and flavorful sauce on hand for another delicious Gado Gado! What can I do if my peanut sauce is too thick? No need to worry if your peanut sauce is too thick! Simply add a small amount of water, about a tablespoon at a time, while stirring over low heat until it reaches the desired consistency. This method helps to maintain the flavor while adjusting the texture. Is Gado Gado suitable for people with nut allergies? If you or someone you’re serving has nut allergies, it’s best to avoid Gado Gado as it contains peanut butter, a primary ingredient. You could try a similar dish using sunflower seed butter or tahini as a substitute if you’re looking for a nut-free sauce. Always double-check for allergies with any new substitutes you use! How do I make Gado Gado vegan? Making Gado Gado vegan is simple! Just ensure you’re using tempeh or firm tofu for protein and skip the boiled eggs. The rest of the ingredients, including the peanut sauce, are naturally plant-based. You’ll still get the creamy texture and satisfying flavors that this salad is famous for! These Gado Gado Recipe FAQs should help you create the perfect dish while giving you peace of mind during your cooking journey! Gado Gado: A Healthy, Vibrant Salad to Elevate Your Meals No ratings yet Gado Gado is a vibrant Indonesian salad packed with fresh vegetables and a creamy peanut sauce, making it a delightful and nutritious choice. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: IndonesianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Peanut Sauce½ cup natural peanut butter use pure peanut butter for stronger flavor2 tablespoons red curry paste for depth of flavor3 tablespoons kecap manis sweet Indonesian soy sauce1 tablespoon sambal oelek adjust to spice preference½ teaspoon salt to enhance flavor2 cloves garlic minced½ cup coconut milk full-fat for richness¼ cup water to adjust consistencyFor the Salad2 cups spinach1 cup beansprouts1 medium potato boiled and cubed1 medium cucumber sliced diagonally4 large boiled eggs halved2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying7 ounces tempeh or firm tofu¼ cup chopped peanuts for garnish1 small red chili for garnishOptional Crunch1 cup prawn crackers for serving Equipment Medium saucepanlarge potSkilletcutting boardknifecolanderslotted spoon Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Gado GadoIn a medium saucepan, combine peanut butter, red curry paste, kecap manis, sambal oelek, salt, and minced garlic. Pour in coconut milk and water. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add potato cubes. Cook for 5 minutes, transfer to a colander. Add beansprouts to boiling water and blanch for 3 minutes, followed by spinach until just wilted, about 1 minute. Drain and set aside.Heat vegetable oil in a skillet. Slice tempeh into bite-sized pieces and fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.On a serving platter, arrange blanched vegetables, cucumber, and halved eggs. Drizzle peanut sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped peanuts and red chili.Serve Gado Gado with a bowl of crispy prawn crackers. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 15gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 12gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 7gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best results, use natural peanut butter without additives and monitor the consistency of the sauce when cooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
