Empal Daging Sapi: A Savory Indonesian Beef Dish
Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef, cut into pieces
- 600 ml coconut milk (from 1/2 coconut)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 segments galangal, smashed
- 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
- Palm sugar, to taste
For the Spice Paste:
- 8 shallots
- 7 cloves garlic
- 3 candlenuts
- 1 segment turmeric
- Cumin seeds
- Coriander seeds
- Black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef: Start by thoroughly washing the beef pieces. In a large skillet or wok, combine the beef with the spice paste ingredients (shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and black pepper), as well as the smashed galangal, bay leaves, and lemongrass. Use your hands to mix and massage the spices and aromatics into the beef until well combined.
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Cook the Beef: Place the beef mixture into the skillet and cook over medium heat. Allow the beef to cook without adding water, and cover the skillet to let the natural juices from the beef be released and evaporate. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
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Add Coconut Milk and Sugar: Once the liquid has mostly evaporated and the beef is tender, pour in the coconut milk and add palm sugar to taste. Stir well to combine. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reduces, and the beef becomes deeply flavored.
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Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Allow the beef to cook until the sauce is almost fully reduced. For an enhanced flavor, reheat the dish with a small amount of oil before serving.
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Enjoy: Empal Daging Sapi is best enjoyed warm. For optimal taste, reheat it before serving with a drizzle of oil if desired.
This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, and its flavors deepen with each reheating. Enjoy the rich and savory taste of this traditional Indonesian favorite!
