Arem Arem Vegan Recipe: Easy & Delicious Plant-Based Snack

Arem Arem is a traditional Indonesian snack that perfectly embodies the harmony of flavors and textures in Southeast Asian cuisine. This delightful vegan recipe features seasoned rice packed with an assortment of savory vegetables, all wrapped in a fragrant banana leaf.

The result is a portable, wholesome treat that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a light meal, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, arem arem offers versatility and a burst of authentic taste that’s hard to resist.

In this post, I’ll walk you through a detailed arem arem vegan recipe that’s simple to prepare and absolutely delicious. From the aromatic spices to the tender rice, every bite tells a story of tradition and care.

Plus, this recipe is 100% plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and anyone wanting a healthy alternative to conventional snacks.

Ready to explore this vibrant Indonesian classic? Let’s dive into the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions to make your own arem arem at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arem Arem is a fantastic snack for many reasons. First, it’s packed with wholesome plant-based ingredients that are both filling and flavorful.

The combination of seasoned rice and veggies wrapped in banana leaves creates a unique taste and aroma that’s truly irresistible.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or add some tempeh or tofu for extra protein.

It’s also a great make-ahead dish, perfect for picnics, lunch boxes, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings.

Moreover, making arem arem at home allows you to control the ingredients, keeping it free from preservatives and additives. If you enjoy recipes like this, you may also appreciate other flavorful plant-based dishes such as Half Runner Beans Recipe and Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 cups jasmine rice (washed and drained)
• 3 cups water or vegetable broth
• 4 banana leaves (for wrapping, optional but recommended)
• 1 cup diced firm tofu
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Banana leaf strings or kitchen twine for tying

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan or rice cooker
• Frying pan or wok
• Knife and chopping board
• Steamer or large pot with steaming rack
• Kitchen scissors (for trimming banana leaves)
• Heatproof string or banana leaf strips for tying

Instructions

1. Cook the rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice with water or vegetable broth in a saucepan or rice cooker. Cook until tender but slightly firm (not mushy). Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the filling: Heat coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and shallot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add diced tofu: Stir-fry the tofu pieces until lightly golden on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate vegetables: Add chopped carrot, green beans, and shredded cabbage. Stir regularly and cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Season the filling: Sprinkle turmeric, coriander powder, black pepper, soy sauce, and salt. Mix well to combine all flavors evenly. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
6. Mix rice and filling: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked rice with the sautéed tofu and vegetables. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed.
7. Prepare banana leaves: If using banana leaves, rinse and soften them by briefly passing over an open flame or dipping in hot water. Cut into rectangles about 8×10 inches.
8. Assemble arem arem: Place a spoonful of the rice mixture onto the center of a banana leaf rectangle. Fold the edges to form a tight rectangular packet. Secure with banana leaf strings or kitchen twine.
9. Steam the packets: Arrange the wrapped packets in a steamer basket. Steam over boiling water for 20-25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the rice to firm up.
10. Serve warm: Remove the packets from the steamer. Let cool for a few minutes before unwrapping and enjoying.

Tips & Variations

For best results, always use fresh banana leaves if available. They add a delightful aroma and keep the rice moist during steaming.

If banana leaves are hard to find, you can use parchment paper or aluminum foil as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Feel free to swap tofu with tempeh or add mushrooms for extra umami. To spice things up, add sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of sambal before wrapping.

For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy sauce is tamari or another gluten-free alternative.

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze individually wrapped packets for up to a month. Reheat by steaming or microwaving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Arem Arem is traditionally enjoyed on its own as a snack or light meal. However, you can pair it with a side of spicy peanut sauce or a fresh cucumber salad to add some brightness and extra flavor contrasts.

It also complements other Asian dishes such as stir-fries or soups. For a wholesome vegan meal, serve alongside dishes like Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe or a refreshing Green Goodness Juice Recipe.

Conclusion

Making arem arem at home is a wonderful way to experience Indonesian flavors in a healthy, vegan-friendly format. This recipe combines simple, fresh ingredients with traditional preparation methods to deliver a snack that’s both nourishing and delicious.

Whether you’re introducing this dish to your family or preparing it for a special occasion, the aromatic rice and vibrant vegetable filling wrapped in banana leaves will impress every palate. Plus, it’s an excellent example of how plant-based cooking can be creative, satisfying, and culturally rich.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Indonesia right from your kitchen. And if you’re in the mood for more vegan treats, don’t forget to check out our Lazy Cookie Cake Recipe or our Lavender Frappe Recipe for some delicious plant-based indulgence.

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