Rendang Daging Sapi: A Flavorful Indonesian Beef Stew Recipe
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine with this exquisite Rendang Daging Sapi recipe. Known for its complex blend of spices and tender beef, this dish is a celebration of savory goodness. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family meal, this rendang is sure to impress. Here’s how to create this deliciously satisfying dish from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef (cut into pieces according to preference)
- 1 coconut (grated to make coconut milk, or use pre-made coconut milk)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 kaffir lime leaf
- 1 turmeric leaf (or 1 teaspoon turmeric powder as a substitute)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- For the spice paste:
- 100 grams red curly chili (adjust to taste)
- 6 shallots
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
- 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal
- 2 stalks lemongrass
Steps:
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Prepare the Beef:
- Wash the beef thoroughly and cut it into pieces based on your preference for size. Place the beef in a bowl and rub it with salt to season.
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Make the Spice Paste:
- Blend together the red curly chili, shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, and lemongrass until you get a smooth paste.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef pieces with the spice paste. Add the coconut milk, sugar, bay leaf, kaffir lime leaf, and turmeric leaf. Stir until the beef is well-coated with the spice paste and the coconut milk.
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Cook the Rendang:
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid starts to reduce and the beef becomes tender. This process can take a while, so be patient. The dish is done when the sauce has thickened and the beef is tender.
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Check for Tenderness:
- To ensure the beef is properly cooked, poke it with a fork. If the beef isn’t tender yet, add a little more water and continue cooking until it reaches the desired tenderness.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the beef is tender and the sauce has reduced to a rich, thick consistency, your Rendang Daging Sapi is ready to be served. Enjoy this aromatic and flavorful stew with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
This Rendang Daging Sapi is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its deep, layered flavors and tender beef, it captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine beautifully. Perfect for special occasions or a flavorful family dinner, this dish is sure to be a favorite on your table. Enjoy the delicious journey of flavors and textures with every bite.