Delicious Indonesian Beef Tongseng with Sweet Soy Sauce

Ingredients

• 500 grams of lean beef, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Spice Paste:

• 5 shallots
• 3 garlic cloves
• 3 cm ginger
• 3 large red chilies
• 10 bird’s eye chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 packet of flavor enhancer (Masako)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 candlenuts
• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (ABC)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 kaffir lime leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine shallots, garlic, ginger, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, candlenuts, and a pinch of salt. Blend into a smooth paste.

2. Cook the Spice Paste: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

3. Add the Beef: Incorporate the beef pieces into the pan, stirring to coat with the spice mixture. Cook until the beef is no longer pink.

4. Add Soy Sauce and Water: Pour in the sweet soy sauce and 200 ml of water. Stir well and bring to a boil.

5. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and thickened to your desired consistency.

6. Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, sugar, or flavor enhancer if needed.

7. Serve: Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.

Enjoy this savory and aromatic dish that brings a touch of Indonesian flavor to your table!