Tender Indonesian Sweet Soy Beef Bistik Recipe

Bistik Sapi Empuk: Tips and Tricks for Tender Beef

Introduction:
Experience the savory delight of Bistik Sapi Empuk, a traditional Indonesian beef dish known for its tender texture and rich flavor. This recipe, enriched with tips from a seasoned neighbor, ensures your beef is not just delicious but melt-in-the-mouth tender.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg beef, thinly sliced
• 1 egg
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 6 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 5 tablespoons margarine (blueband)
• Salt to taste
• Sugar to taste
• Beef broth powder to taste
• 2-3 pieces of papaya leaves, cleaned
• Bumbu Halus (Ground Spices):
  • 5 large garlic cloves
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds (ketumbar)
  • 1 sachet of ground black pepper (ladaku)**

Steps:

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Place the thinly sliced beef in a bowl. Add the ground spices, sweet soy sauce, margarine, and one beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly distributed.

2. Marinate with Papaya Leaves:

   • Line a bowl with two papaya leaves. Place the marinated beef on top of the leaves. Cover the beef with another papaya leaf. This method helps tenderize the meat quickly, a trick I learned from a wise neighbor. Let it marinate for 1-2 hours. I usually marinate for about an hour.

3. Sauté the Onion:

   • After marinating, heat 1 tablespoon of margarine in a pan. Sauté the sliced onions until they are fragrant and golden.

4. Cook the Beef:

   • Add the marinated beef, discarding the papaya leaves, into the pan with the onions. Stir-fry until the beef changes color.
   • Add sufficient water, then season with salt, sugar, and beef broth powder to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

5. Simmer to Tender Perfection:

   • Cook the beef until it is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor infusion.

6. Finishing Touch:

   • Once the beef is tender and the sauce is slightly thickened, sprinkle with crispy fried shallots. This final touch adds a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestion:
Serve your Bistik Sapi Empuk with steamed rice or warm bread. The rich, savory sauce pairs perfectly with a simple vegetable salad or steamed greens.

Conclusion:
Bistik Sapi Empuk is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary journey enriched with traditional tips and flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe promises to be a hit at your table. Enjoy the tender bites and let the flavors speak for themselves!