Indonesian Coconut Beef Stew (Tongseng Sapi): Flavorful & Spicy Delight

Tongseng Sapi: Savory Indonesian Beef Stew with Coconut Milk

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 3 large cabbage leaves (chopped coarsely; optional)
• 1 large tomato (diced)
• 750 ml coconut milk
• 8 red chili peppers (whole)
• 1/2 piece galangal (crushed)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (crushed)
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 cm cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
• Salt, sugar, and bouillon powder (to taste)
• Water (as needed)

For the Spice Paste:

• 6 shallots
• 4 cloves garlic
• 4 red curly chilies
• 2 candlenuts
• 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1/2 piece turmeric root

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

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   • Place the beef pieces in a pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and simmer until the beef is partially cooked. Remove from heat and drain. Cut the beef into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Blend or grind the shallots, garlic, red curly chilies, candlenuts, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, and turmeric root into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a little oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste along with the crushed galangal, lemongrass, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until fragrant and the paste has cooked through.

4. Combine Beef and Spices:

   • Add the chopped beef to the pot. Stir well to coat the beef with the spice paste. Pour in enough water to cover the beef. Add the sweet soy sauce, salt, sugar, and bouillon powder. Stir to combine.

5. Simmer the Stew:

   • Let the mixture simmer over low heat until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded, about 30-40 minutes.

6. Add Coconut Milk and Chilies:

   • Pour in the coconut milk and add the whole red chilies. Continue to cook until the stew is rich and creamy, and the flavors have fully developed.

7. Final Touches:

   • Before serving, stir in the diced tomato and chopped cabbage (if using). Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

8. Serve:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, and enjoy this comforting Indonesian beef stew with rice or as a standalone dish.

Tips:

• Adjust the number of chilies based on your preferred spice level.
• If using cabbage, make sure it is chopped just before adding to keep it crisp.

Enjoy the hearty, aromatic flavors of Tongseng Sapi, a delightful Indonesian beef stew that’s sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds!