Indonesian Beef Satay Stir-Fry with Kaffir Lime and Green Tomatoes

Sate Goreng Sapi (Indonesian Beef Satay Stir-Fry)

Sate Goreng Sapi, or Indonesian Beef Satay Stir-Fry, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings together tender chunks of beef simmered in a spiced, savory sauce with a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a hearty meal, this recipe combines rich flavors with a delightful balance of spices. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious dish.

Ingredients:

• 350 grams beef, cut into cubes
• 2 green tomatoes, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 6 shallots, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 3 red chilies or bird’s eye chilies, sliced
• 200 ml water
• Salt, to taste
• Palm sugar, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fried shallots, for garnish

For the Spice Paste:

• 5 cloves garlic
• 3 candlenuts
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

For the Marinade:

• 1/2 piece palm sugar, sliced
• 2 tamarind slices, with a little water
• Sweet soy sauce, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced palm sugar, tamarind with a little water, sweet soy sauce, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, candlenuts, and ground coriander. Blend into a smooth paste.

3. Marinate the Beef:

   • Add the spice paste to the marinade mixture. Stir until well mixed.
   • Place the beef cubes into the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the beef to marinate for about 15 minutes, so the flavors can penetrate the meat.

4. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Heat some oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced shallots, garlic, bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and red chilies to the skillet. Sauté until the shallots and garlic are softened and fragrant.

5. Cook the Beef:

   • Add the marinated beef cubes to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the aromatics.
   • Continue cooking until the beef starts to release its juices and the mixture becomes fragrant.

6. Simmer the Dish:

   • Pour in the water and stir to combine. Season with additional salt, palm sugar, sweet soy sauce, and black pepper to taste.
   • Allow the mixture to simmer until the liquid reduces and the beef becomes tender, and the sauce thickens. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Add the Tomatoes:

   • Add the sliced green tomatoes to the skillet. Stir until the tomatoes are just wilted and incorporated into the dish.

8. Finish and Serve:

   • Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
   • Garnish with fried shallots before serving.

Enjoy Sate Goreng Sapi with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. This rich, flavorful dish is sure to be a hit at any meal, combining the depth of Indonesian spices with the hearty satisfaction of beef.