Creamy Indonesian Beef Tendon Stew with Tofu and Green Beans

Lodeh Kikil Sapi: A Savory Indonesian Delight

Ingredients:

• 1/4 kg beef tendon (kikil sapi), cut into cubes and cleaned
• 10 pieces of Sumedang tofu, sliced in half
• 6 green beans, cut into pieces, cleaned, and briefly boiled
• 5 green chilies, sliced
• 65 ml thick coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon beef flavor seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, crushed
• Water, as needed
• Cooking oil, as needed

For the Spice Paste:

• 5 shallots
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 red chili
• 2 candlenuts
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• Palm sugar to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   Begin by blending the shallots, garlic, red chili, candlenuts, coriander seeds, and palm sugar into a smooth paste. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Spice Paste:
   Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

3. Add Aromatics:
   Pour a small amount of water into the pan to help the spices cook evenly. Add the bay leaves and crushed galangal to the pan, stirring to incorporate.

4. Cook the Vegetables:
   Introduce the sliced green chilies, beef tendon, and green beans into the pan. Stir well to mix the ingredients. Add more water if necessary to cover the ingredients, and bring to a simmer.

5. Incorporate the Tofu:
   Gently add the sliced Sumedang tofu into the pan. Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, beef flavor seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste, stirring to combine all the flavors.

6. Simmer and Add Coconut Milk:
   Once the mixture starts to boil, pour in the thick coconut milk. Continue to stir gently to prevent the coconut milk from curdling. Let the dish simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Finish and Serve:
   After the dish has boiled twice and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the pan from the heat. Your Lodeh Kikil Sapi is now ready to be served!

This rich and hearty Indonesian dish features tender beef tendon and tofu simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce with a blend of aromatic spices. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying meal. Enjoy the delightful flavors and comforting warmth of this traditional recipe!