Tongseng Sapi: A Flavorful Indonesian Beef Stew
Tongseng Sapi is a delicious and hearty Indonesian beef stew known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal, this dish combines tender beef with a savory broth and a blend of fragrant herbs and spices. Follow these simple steps to create this flavorful stew that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 250 grams beef, cut into chunks
- 1 liter water
- 50 grams cabbage, chopped
- 3 stalks scallions, chopped
- 2 stalks lemongrass, smashed
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 kaffir lime leaves
- 10 whole bird’s eye chilies
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Oil for sautéing
Spice Paste:
- 6 shallots
- 5 cloves garlic
- 2 cm ginger
- 2 cm turmeric
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
Instructions:
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Cook the Beef: Start by boiling the beef chunks in 1 liter of water until tender. This process helps to develop a rich broth and ensures that the meat is cooked thoroughly.
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Prepare the Spice Paste: While the beef is cooking, make the spice paste. Blend the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and coriander seeds until smooth.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and golden brown. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavors and aroma of the dish.
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Add Herbs and Seasonings: To the pan, add the smashed lemongrass, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Stir well and cook for another minute. Then, add the granulated sugar and salt, mixing thoroughly.
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Combine Beef and Broth: Incorporate the cooked beef and its broth into the pan with the spice mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the beef is fully tender and the flavors meld together.
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Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Once the beef is tender, add the chopped tomato, whole bird’s eye chilies, scallions, and cabbage. Pour in the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and adjust the seasoning to taste.
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Simmer and Serve: Continue to cook until the vegetables are tender and the stew has reached a rolling boil. Remove from heat.
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Serve: Ladle the Tongseng Sapi into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this flavorful Indonesian stew with steamed rice or crusty bread.
This Tongseng Sapi recipe is perfect for bringing a taste of Indonesian cuisine to your table, combining the warmth of a hearty stew with the vibrant flavors of traditional spices.
