Indonesian Beef Stew with Tofu and Coconut Milk

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Terik Daging Sapi, an exquisite Indonesian beef stew that combines tender beef with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. This dish is perfect for a hearty meal, whether you’re serving family or friends. The preparation of this dish involves simmering beef in a luscious coconut sauce, flavored with a blend of traditional spices and herbs. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 600 grams beef, preferably with some fat for richness
• 4 pieces tofu, cut into wedges
• 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
• 4 bay leaves
• 3 cm galangal, sliced
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 stalks lemongrass, smashed
• 80 grams palm sugar, finely chopped
• 1500 cc coconut milk (medium thickness)
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 8 shallots
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 6 candlenuts
  • 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon beef or mushroom stock powder
• Tamarind water, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Begin by prepping all the ingredients. Cut the beef into chunks, slice the tofu, and peel the hard-boiled eggs.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, coriander seeds, black pepper, and stock powder into a smooth paste. This will form the base of your flavorful sauce.

3. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a generous amount of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

4. Cook the Beef:

   • Add the beef chunks to the pot. Stir well to coat the beef with the spice paste. Cook until the beef changes color and starts to brown slightly.

5. Add Coconut Milk and Other Ingredients:

   • Pour in the coconut milk, and add the tofu, hard-boiled eggs, bay leaves, galangal slices, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Sweeten and Simmer:

   • Add the finely chopped palm sugar to the pot. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer gently.

7. Simmer and Infuse Flavors:

   • Continue to cook the stew on low heat, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld. This should take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and check to ensure the sauce is not drying out; add a bit of water if necessary.

8. Adjust the Taste:

   • Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, adjust the seasoning with tamarind water, salt, or additional sugar as needed.

9. Serve:

   • Once cooked to perfection, serve Terik Daging Sapi hot with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal spread.

Enjoy this delectable Terik Daging Sapi, which brings together a harmonious blend of spices, creamy coconut milk, and tender beef. The tofu and hard-boiled eggs add texture and depth, making it a satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.