Tapai & Modo Tahan (Timorese Wok-Sautéed Greens, Papaya Flowers/Broccolini & Garlic Tofu) – Authentic Timor-Leste Recipe
Vibrant Dili home skillet balancing lightly bitter-sweet greens with golden garlic and lime.
- Country of Origin
- 🇹🇱 Timor-Leste (Southeast Asia, Asia)
- Dietary Profile
- vegan
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 20 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Signature Staples
- Broccolini and leafy greens, Crispy golden tofu cubes, Cherry tomatoes and rice, Lots of fried garlic and shallots, Red bird’s eye chili
Ingredients for Tapai & Modo Tahan (Timorese Wok-Sautéed Greens, Papaya Flowers/Broccolini & Garlic Tofu) (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) broccolini and leafy greens, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups crispy golden tofu cubes, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes and rice
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with lots of fried garlic and shallots
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Timor-Leste seasoning (red bird’s eye chili, calamansi lime)
- 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat oil in a wide heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and lots of fried garlic and shallots for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add broccolini and leafy greens and crispy golden tofu cubes along with red bird’s eye chili, calamansi lime, searing for 8–10 minutes while tossing occasionally.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or citrus so the caramelized fond coats every bite.
- Garnish with cherry tomatoes and rice and serve straight from the skillet.