Indonesian Beef Curry with Creamy Coconut Milk (Gulai Sapi)

Gulai Sapi: A Rich and Flavorful Indonesian Beef Curry

Gulai Sapi, a delectable Indonesian beef curry, is a dish known for its aromatic blend of spices and creamy coconut milk. This recipe offers a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner. Let’s dive into the preparation of this exquisite dish.

Ingredients

• 500 grams beef (optional cuts include sandung lamur, babat, or tetelan)
• 500 ml thick coconut milk (from 1 coconut)
• Cooking oil
• Cloves (cengkeh)
• Lemongrass (serai)
• Bay leaves (daun salam)
• Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
• Salt (to taste)
• Organic flavor enhancer (optional)

For the spice paste:

• 5 large red chilies (cabe merah besar)
• 7 bird’s eye chilies (cabe rawit, optional)
• 4 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
• 5 shallots (bawang merah)
• Turmeric (a piece, about the size of a finger)
• Toasted cumin and coriander seeds (jintan dan ketumbar)
• Nutmeg (pala)
• Ginger (a piece, about the size of a finger)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Begin by boiling the beef, optional cuts such as sandung lamur, babat, or tetelan. Discard the water and rinse the beef thoroughly. This step helps to remove impurities and excess fat.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend together the red chilies, bird’s eye chilies (if using), garlic, shallots, turmeric, toasted cumin and coriander seeds, nutmeg, and ginger into a smooth paste.

3. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • Heat some cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until it releases a fragrant aroma and turns slightly golden.

4. Cook the Beef:

   • Add the pre-cooked beef to the pot with the sautéed spice paste. Stir well to ensure the beef is coated with the spices.

5. Add Liquid and Aromatics:

   • Pour in enough water or diluted coconut milk (from the second pressing) to cover the beef. Add the bay leaves, lemongrass, cloves, and kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a boil.

6. Simmer and Season:

   • Allow the mixture to simmer until it begins to boil. Season with salt to taste and add the organic flavor enhancer if using. Stir well.

7. Incorporate Coconut Milk:

   • Gradually add the thick coconut milk to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent the coconut milk from separating.

8. Cook Until Tender:

   • Continue cooking the curry on low heat until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined. The aroma should be rich and inviting.

9. Serve:

   • Transfer the Gulai Sapi to a serving dish. Garnish with crispy fried shallots for an extra touch of flavor.

Gulai Sapi is best enjoyed with steamed rice or traditional Indonesian side dishes. Its rich, creamy texture and complex spice profile make it a standout dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy this flavorful Indonesian beef curry with your family and friends!