Indonesian Beef Stew with Coconut and Pineapple (Tongseng Daging Sapi)

Tongseng Daging Sapi: Savory Indonesian Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1/2 teaspoon instant curry powder
• 1 liter thin coconut milk
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, bruised
• 5 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1/4 head cabbage, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 pineapple, grated

For the Spice Paste:

• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, toasted
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric, roasted
• 10 shallots
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, grated
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the toasted coriander seeds, roasted turmeric, shallots, garlic, cumin, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until a smooth paste forms.

2. Marinate the Beef:

   • Place the beef pieces in a bowl and coat them with the grated pineapple. Let the beef marinate for 5-10 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat and adds a subtle sweetness.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

4. Brown the Beef:

   • Add the marinated beef to the pot. Cook until the beef turns a rich brown color.

5. Simmer with Coconut Milk:

   • Pour in the thin coconut milk and add the instant curry powder, bay leaves, lemongrass, and galangal. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

6. Add Sweet Soy Sauce and Vegetables:

   • Stir in the sweet soy sauce. Add the chopped cabbage and tomatoes. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

7. Adjust Seasonings:

   • Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.

8. Serve:

   • Serve the Tongseng Daging Sapi hot with steamed rice. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional Indonesian beef stew!

This Tongseng Daging Sapi offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes, making it an ideal dish for any meal.