Indonesian Beef Rendang: Tender and Flavorful Authentic Recipe

Authentic Indonesian Beef Rendang Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef (cut into chunks)
• 200 ml coconut milk (such as Sun Kara brand)
• 250 ml water
• Sugar, salt, and Royco seasoning (to taste)

For the Spice Paste:

• 15 red curly chilies
• 5 red bird’s eye chilies
• 15 shallots
• 9 garlic cloves
• 1/4 nutmeg
• 1/2 tablespoon whole coriander seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon whole black pepper
• 3 cloves
• 6 candlenuts
• 1 segment young galangal
• 1 segment ginger
• 2 stalks lemongrass (use the white parts)
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 turmeric leaves

For Marinating the Beef:

• 1/2 young pineapple (grated)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:

   • Cut the beef into chunks according to your preference. Rub the beef with the grated young pineapple and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial as young pineapple contains enzymes that help tenderize the meat by breaking down its fibers. After marinating, rinse the beef thoroughly to remove any pineapple scent.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the red curly chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic, nutmeg, coriander seeds, black pepper, cloves, candlenuts, galangal, and ginger into a smooth paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle.

3. Cook the Rendang:

   • Heat a little oil in a pan (canola oil works well) and sauté the spice paste until fragrant and aromatic.
   • Add the beef chunks and cook until they start to brown slightly.
   • Pour in the water and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
   • Add sugar, salt, and Royco seasoning according to your taste preferences.

4. Simmer the Rendang:

   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently, uncovered, for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The slow cooking process will allow the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Adjust Consistency:

   • The end texture of the rendang can be adjusted according to your preference. For a drier rendang with less sauce, cook it until most of the liquid evaporates. If you prefer a slightly saucy rendang, adjust the cooking time to retain some liquid.

6. Finish and Serve:

   • Once the beef is tender and the rendang has reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice for a truly authentic Indonesian meal.

Enjoy this rich and flavorful Beef Rendang, a classic Indonesian dish that is sure to delight your taste buds!