Authentic Rendang Sapi: Indonesian Beef Stew with Rich Coconut Flavor

Rendang Sapi Ala Rara

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef (cut into cubes, adjust to preference)
• 10 red chilies (or to taste)
• 5 shallots
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
• 5 candlenuts
• 1 nutmeg
• 2 packets ground pepper (or 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns)
• 1 stalk lemongrass
• 1 turmeric leaf
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar
• 2 thumb-sized pieces of galangal
• 500 grams small potatoes (optional)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   Begin by finely chopping the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and candlenuts. Blend these ingredients together into a smooth paste. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can toast the spices lightly before blending.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat a generous amount of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped spice paste to the pot. Sauté until the mixture becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

3. Add Herbs and Spices:
   Once the spice paste is aromatic, add the lemongrass, turmeric leaf, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Stir well to combine the flavors.

4. Incorporate Coconut Milk:
   Pour in the coconut milk and stir to blend it thoroughly with the spices. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

5. Add the Beef:
   Add the beef cubes to the simmering coconut milk. Stir to coat the meat with the spice mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the beef cook slowly, absorbing the rich flavors.

6. Optional: Add Potatoes:
   If desired, peel and cut the small potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the pot with the beef. Continue cooking until the potatoes are tender and the beef is well-cooked.

7. Simmer Until Done:
   Allow the rendang to simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the coconut milk has reduced and thickened, and the beef is tender and flavorful. The sauce should be rich and deeply colored.

8. Season to Taste:
   Add palm sugar and adjust the seasoning with salt or additional pepper as needed. Ensure the beef and potatoes are well-coated in the thick, aromatic sauce.

9. Serve:
   Once the rendang is cooked to your liking and the sauce has thickened to your preference, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy this classic Rendang Sapi Ala Rara, a delightful Indonesian beef stew that’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal. Happy cooking! 😇