Indonesian Tamarind Beef Stew with Carrots and Green Beans

Ingredients

• 250 grams beef, cut into small pieces
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 100 grams green beans, cut into pieces
• 1 tomato, cut into 8 wedges
• 6 shallots, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• Chilies to taste (optional)
• 2 red chilies, sliced on the diagonal (optional, omitted in this version)
• 1 tablespoon tamarind water
• 3 pieces of starfruit (carambola), cut into wedges (optional, omitted in this version)
• 3 cm galangal, crushed
• Sugar, salt, and chicken stock powder to taste
• Sufficient water

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   Begin by heating a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and garlic to the pan. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.

2. Add Spices and Beef:
   Incorporate the chilies (if using), crushed galangal, and starfruit (if using) into the pan. Stir to combine the flavors. Add the beef pieces and pour in enough water to cover the meat. Allow the beef to cook and the water to come to a gentle simmer.

3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
   Once the beef has started to tenderize, add the sliced carrots and green beans. Season the stew with sugar, salt, and chicken stock powder according to your taste preferences. Stir in the tomato wedges and tamarind water.

4. Simmer Until Tender:
   Continue to cook the stew over a low heat until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together, which should take around 1 to 1.5 hours.

5. Final Adjustments:
   Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

6. Serve:
   Once the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked, remove from heat. Serve hot as a hearty and flavorful main dish.

Enjoy this delightful Indonesian stew with steamed rice for a comforting and satisfying meal!