Indonesian Beef and Egg Curry with Coconut Milk

Ingredients:

• Beef: Enough for your desired portion, preferably with some fat and connective tissue
• Eggs: 3 large
• Coconut Milk: 15 ml (Kara brand recommended)
• Sugar: To taste
• Salt: To taste
• Beef Seasoning: To taste
• Water: Enough to cover the beef
• Galangal: 1 thumb-sized piece
• Lemongrass: 1 stalk
• Bay Leaves: 2
• Kaffir Lime Leaves: 4
• Spice Paste:
  • Shallots: 8
  • Garlic: 6 cloves
  • Bird’s Eye Chili: 10
  • Red Chili: 3
  • Curly Red Chili: 3
  • Candlenuts: 3
  • Coriander: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
  • Turmeric: 1 thumb-sized piece

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Clean the beef, selecting pieces with some connective tissue for richer flavor. Cut into chunks according to your preference.
   • Place the beef in a pot and cover with enough water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the beef is tender.

2. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chili, red chili, curly red chili, candlenuts, coriander, cumin (if using), and turmeric. Blend into a smooth paste.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste along with the bruised galangal, lemongrass, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Sauté until fragrant and the paste has cooked through.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Transfer the cooked spice paste to the pot with the beef. Stir well and let it cook together for a few minutes.
   • Add the hard-boiled eggs (peeled) to the pot. Mix gently to coat the eggs with the curry sauce.

5. Add Coconut Milk and Season:

   • Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Season with salt, sugar, and beef seasoning according to your taste preferences. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

6. Simmer and Serve:

   • Allow the curry to simmer gently until the flavors are well combined and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
   • Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.

7. Final Adjustments:

   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with rice or your preferred side dish.

Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional Indonesian dish that combines tender beef and flavorful spices in a creamy coconut sauce!