Authentic Indonesian Beef Rendang: Rich & Spicy Slow-Cooked Delight

Rendang Daging Sapi: A Flavorful Indonesian Beef Stew

Rendang Daging Sapi, a classic Indonesian dish, is renowned for its rich, aromatic flavors and tender beef. This recipe, bursting with spices and slow-cooked to perfection, is a true culinary delight. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Indonesian cuisine.

Ingredients

• 500 grams beef (preferably chuck or brisket)
• 1/2 old coconut (used to make coconut milk)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (crushed)
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 lime (for juicing)
• Salt and palm sugar (to taste)
• Cooking oil (for frying)

Spice Paste:

• 7 shallots
• 6 cloves garlic
• 100 grams red chilies
• 4 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 thumb-sized galangal
• 1/2 thumb-sized ginger
• 1 thumb-sized turmeric
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 nutmeg
• 2 candlenuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Clean the beef thoroughly and rub with lime juice and salt. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then rinse again and drain.

2. Pre-cook the Beef:

   • Boil the beef until it is partially cooked. Remove from the pot and set aside.

3. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the shallots, garlic, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, galangal, ginger, turmeric, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black pepper, nutmeg, and candlenuts into a smooth paste. You may need a bit of water to help blend the ingredients.

4. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant.

5. Add Aromatics:

   • Incorporate the crushed lemongrass, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves into the pan with the spice paste.

6. Simmer the Rendang:

   • Pour in the coconut milk, and season with salt and palm sugar to taste. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

7. Combine Beef and Sauce:

   • Add the pre-cooked beef to the pan. Stir constantly to ensure the coconut milk doesn’t separate. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens and the beef is tender, absorbing all the flavors.

8. Final Touches:

   • Adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or palm sugar according to your preference. Cook until the sauce has reduced and coats the beef.

9. Serve:

   • Remove from heat and serve the Rendang Daging Sapi hot, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Perfect Rendang

• Beef Choice: Opt for cuts of beef that become tender with slow cooking, like chuck or brisket.
• Consistency: The key to a great Rendang is in the slow cooking, allowing the sauce to thicken and intensify in flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of chilies based on your heat preference.

Enjoy making this aromatic Rendang Daging Sapi, and savor the deep, comforting flavors of this beloved Indonesian classic. Happy cooking! 😊