Indonesian Spiced Beef Pilaf: Nasi Kebuli Delight

Nasi Kebuli Daging Sapi: A Delightful Indonesian Beef Pilaf

Nasi Kebuli Daging Sapi is a rich and aromatic Indonesian beef pilaf that combines tender beef with a blend of spices, creating a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of spiced rice and beef, often enjoyed with traditional accompaniments like omelet slices and pickles. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable dish.

Ingredients

• 3 cups rice (preferably jasmine or any long-grain rice suitable for pilaf)
• 1/4 kg beef (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 5 bay leaves
• 1 medium stalk lemongrass (lightly crushed)
• 6 cloves
• 5 star anise
• 5 cm cinnamon stick
• 4 cardamom pods (seeds extracted)
• 1 packet Sun Kara (or any Indonesian spice blend, optional)
• For the spice paste:
  • 3 pieces turmeric root (peeled)
  • 3 pieces ginger root (peeled)
  • 8 shallots
  • 5 garlic cloves
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 nutmeg
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt, sugar, and mushroom broth powder (to taste)
• Water (as needed)

Accompaniments

• Omelet slices
• Cucumber or pickles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the turmeric root, ginger root, shallots, garlic cloves, coriander seeds, and nutmeg. Blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Spice Mixture:

   • In a large pan, heat the cooking oil and butter over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste and sauté until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
   • Add the cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, star anise, and bay leaves. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the spices release their aroma.

3. Add the Beef:

   • Add the beef pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides. Stir occasionally to ensure the beef is well coated with the spices.
   • Pour in enough water to cover the beef. Season with salt, sugar, and mushroom broth powder. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Simmer until the beef is tender and the liquid has reduced to a flavorful broth, about 30-40 minutes.

4. Strain and Prepare the Beef:

   • Once the beef is cooked, strain the broth to remove the whole spices and any solids. Cut the beef into small, bite-sized pieces and return them to the strained broth.

5. Cook the Rice:

   • Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. In a large pot, combine the rice with the beef broth. Ensure the liquid level is adequate, similar to how you would normally cook rice. Avoid adding too much or too little water; the rice should absorb the liquid without being too dry or soggy.
   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the rice until it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

6. Steam the Rice:

   • Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a steamer basket lined with a clean cloth. Steam over boiling water for 15-20 minutes to ensure the rice is fluffy and fully cooked.

7. Serve:

   • To serve, mold the rice into a shape using a bowl or a mold. Place it on a serving platter and garnish with the beef pieces. Serve with slices of omelet and cucumber or pickles on the side for added freshness.

Enjoy your Nasi Kebuli Daging Sapi, a deliciously spiced Indonesian rice dish that combines tender beef with a flavorful spice blend, perfect for sharing with family and friends!