Ingredients
- 750 grams beef (preferably from the shoulder or brisket)
- 3 bay leaves
- 5 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 stalks lemongrass, smashed
- 1 cm cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped palm sugar
- 1 tablespoon tamarind water
- 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
- Salt to taste
- 750 ml water (add more if needed to tenderize the beef)
For the spice paste:
- 10 shallots
- 6 cloves garlic
- 2 red chilies, seeds removed
- 1 thumb-sized piece young galangal
- 4 cm turmeric root
- 1 tablespoon toasted coriander seeds
- 5 candlenuts, toasted
- 1/4 nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, blend the shallots, garlic, red chilies, galangal, turmeric, toasted coriander seeds, toasted candlenuts, nutmeg, and black peppercorns into a smooth paste.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.
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Add Aromatics: To the pot, add the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Stir well to combine and release their flavors.
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Brown the Beef: Add the beef to the pot and stir until the meat changes color and is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
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Season the Beef: Once the beef is browned, season with salt, palm sugar, tamarind water, and sweet soy sauce. Stir well to mix the seasonings throughout the meat.
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Simmer: Pour in the water, ensuring the beef is mostly covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened, which may take 1.5 to 2 hours. Add more water as needed if the sauce reduces too quickly or the beef is not yet tender.
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Finish and Serve: Once the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice or your choice of side dishes.
This Indonesian-inspired Beef Lapis is a flavorful and aromatic dish that showcases the rich, complex flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine. Enjoy the savory and slightly sweet notes that come together in this comforting and satisfying meal.