Spicy Beef Stir-Fry (Oseng Mercon Daging Sapi)
Experience the fiery flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delectable recipe for Oseng Mercon Daging Sapi, a spicy beef stir-fry that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. This dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, aromatic blend of spices and chilies, creating a savory and spicy masterpiece that’s perfect for serving over a bed of steaming white rice. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 300 grams beef (including some fatty bits)
- 10 whole red bird’s eye chilies
- 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, crushed
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 1/2 tablespoons palm sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of beef seasoning (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
For the spice paste:
- 10 curly red chilies
- 15-20 red bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 12 shallots
- 5 cloves garlic
- 2 cm ginger
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spice Paste:
- Begin by making the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the curly red chilies, red bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic, and ginger. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the crushed galangal and bay leaves. Sauté briefly until fragrant.
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Cook the Spice Paste:
- Add the prepared spice paste to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the paste becomes aromatic and begins to release its oils.
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Add the Beef:
- Introduce the beef, which should be cut into small pieces (if pre-cooked, it will be more tender). Toss in the whole red bird’s eye chilies. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the beef starts to brown.
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Simmer the Dish:
- Pour in 300 ml of water, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Season and Finish Cooking:
- Add the palm sugar, salt, optional beef seasoning, and sweet soy sauce. Stir well to combine. Continue to cook until the liquid has reduced, the beef is tender, and the oil has separated from the sauce.
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Serve:
- Once the dish has thickened and the oil has changed color, remove from heat. Serve hot with a side of steamed white rice.
This Oseng Mercon Daging Sapi recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick and rich, complex flavors. Enjoy this traditional Indonesian delight as a hearty meal that brings a touch of warmth and spice to your dining table.
