Indonesian Beef Curry Gulai: Spicy and Aromatic Delight

Gulai Daging Sapi (Indonesian Beef Curry)

Gulai Daging Sapi is a beloved Indonesian beef curry that features tender beef simmered in a rich and aromatic spice blend. This dish is a staple in Indonesian cuisine, known for its fragrant spices and savory flavor profile. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you in making this comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef (or goat meat if preferred)
• 10 small red chilies (cabe rawit merah), adjust to taste
• 2 shallots (bawang merah)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander (ketumbar bubuk)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (lada bubuk)
• 2 candlenuts (kemiri)
• Turmeric (kunyit), to taste
• Ginger (jahe), to taste
• 2 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• Salt (garam), to taste
• Seasoning powder (penyedap rasa), to taste
• 1/4 cup cooking oil (minyak goreng)
• Tamarind paste (asam jawa), to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Begin by boiling the beef until tender. Once cooked, cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the small red chilies, shallots, candlenuts, turmeric, and ginger. Blend into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes aromatic and slightly browned.

4. Add Aromatics:

   • Incorporate the kaffir lime leaves and bay leaves into the pan, continuing to sauté for a few more minutes.

5. Combine Beef and Spice Paste:

   • Add the beef pieces to the pan, stirring well to coat them with the spice paste. Cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Simmer:

   • Add a small amount of water to the pan to help the beef cook further and absorb the flavors. Adjust the heat to low and let it simmer until the beef is fully cooked and tender, and the sauce has thickened.

7. Season:

   • Season the dish with salt and seasoning powder to taste. Adjust the tamarind paste according to your preference for a tangy flavor.

8. Serve:

   • Transfer the gulai daging sapi to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy this delectable Indonesian beef curry as a hearty main course for a special meal or a comforting family dinner. Its rich, spicy flavors and tender meat will surely delight your taste buds.