Indonesian Beef Semur with Tofu and Potatoes

Beef Semur with Eggs, Tofu, and Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 250 g beef (pressure-cooked for 15 minutes, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 3 hard-boiled eggs
• 1 block of firm tofu, sliced and fried
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges

For the Spice Paste:

• 3 cloves garlic
• 5 shallots
• 10 cm galangal, crushed
• 2 cm ginger
• 3 candlenuts
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 5 cloves
• 3 cm cinnamon stick
• 1 nutmeg
• 2 bay leaves (optional, if available)
• 2 blocks palm sugar
• 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by grinding the spices for the paste. Start with the harder spices like candlenuts, coriander, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon. Once finely ground, add the garlic, shallots, and ginger. Use a mortar and pestle for the most authentic flavor, or a food processor if preferred.

2. Sauté the Spice Paste: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until the mixture turns golden brown and fragrant. Add the crushed galangal, palm sugar, salt, and sweet soy sauce. Continue to cook until all ingredients are well combined and the paste is aromatic.

3. Cook the Main Ingredients: Add the beef pieces to the pan. Stir to coat the meat thoroughly with the spice paste. Add the hard-boiled eggs, fried tofu, and potato wedges. Pour in the remaining liquid from the beef’s pressure cooking (or use water if necessary) to cover the ingredients.

4. Simmer: Cook the mixture over low heat until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened. This may take 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or sweet soy sauce if needed.

6. Serve: Serve the Semur with steamed rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. Enjoy the rich, flavorful stew with its delightful combination of ingredients.

This traditional Indonesian stew, Semur Sapi, brings together tender beef, savory tofu, and hearty potatoes in a spiced sauce, creating a comforting and delicious dish perfect for any meal.