Iga Gulai Sapi ala Merlin: A Rich Indonesian Beef Ribs Curry
Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef ribs (Iga Sapi)
- 2 inches fresh turmeric (kunyit)
- 1 inch fresh galangal (lengkuas)
- 3 sticks cinnamon (kayu manis)
- 5 whole nutmegs (biji pala)
- 5 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
- 10 shallots (bawang merah)
- 1 inch fresh ginger (jahe)
- 6 red curly chilies (cabe merah keriting)
- 1 old coconut (kelapa tua), grated and squeezed for coconut milk
- 1 sachet sweetened condensed milk (susu kental manis)
- Salt, sugar, and pepper to taste
- Butter for sautéing
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by blending the turmeric, galangal, garlic, shallots, ginger, and red chilies into a smooth paste. Ensure that the paste is finely ground to release the full flavor of the spices.
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Sauté the Spice Paste: In a large pot, heat some butter over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. This step is crucial for developing a rich, aromatic base for the curry.
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Add Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Incorporate the cinnamon sticks and nutmegs into the pot. Stir well to combine and allow the spices to infuse into the paste.
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Cook the Coconut Milk: Pour in the diluted coconut milk (using half of the grated coconut’s liquid) and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This will create a creamy, flavorful broth.
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Simmer the Beef Ribs: Add the beef ribs to the pot. Cook at a low simmer until the meat is tender and has absorbed the spices. This process should take about 1 hour. Make sure to stir occasionally and check that the meat is cooking evenly.
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Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Once the beef is tender, stir in half of the sweetened condensed milk. This will add a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the curry.
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Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with salt, sugar, and pepper according to your preference. Let the curry simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Finish and Serve: When the curry has reached your desired consistency and the flavors are well-balanced, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished as desired, with steamed rice or bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Enjoy your Iga Gulai Sapi ala Merlin – a delectable Indonesian beef ribs curry that’s perfect for a hearty meal with family and friends.
