Sapi Lada Hitam: A Savory Black Pepper Beef Delight
If you’re looking to infuse your dinner with a burst of bold flavors and a hint of spice, Sapi Lada Hitam, or Black Pepper Beef, is the perfect dish for you. This Indonesian classic features tender beef simmered with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce that promises to tantalize your taste buds. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 250 grams of beef, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 stalk of scallions, sliced
- 10 small red chilies (cabe rawit), sliced thinly
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and sugar to taste
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 5 whole candlenuts (kemiri)
- 1 tomato, diced
- 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef:
Begin by simmering the beef cubes in a pot with minced garlic and 5 whole candlenuts. Cook the beef until tender, ensuring that it absorbs the rich flavors of the garlic and candlenuts. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a deep, nutty aroma. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red chilies, scallions, and diced tomato. Sauté these ingredients until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent. The combination of these fresh ingredients will create a flavorful base for the dish. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Once the aromatics are ready, add the cooked beef cubes to the skillet. Stir to combine the beef with the vegetables. -
Flavor the Dish:
Season the mixture with sweet soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure that the beef is evenly coated with the seasonings. Continue to cook the mixture until the beef is browned and the sauce has reduced slightly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. -
Final Touches:
Cook until the beef is well-caramelized and the sauce has thickened to your liking. This will give your Sapi Lada Hitam a rich, deep flavor. If desired, sprinkle a few sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of elegance. -
Serve:
Transfer the dish to a serving plate and enjoy! Sapi Lada Hitam is excellent when paired with steamed rice or noodles, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
This savory and spicy Sapi Lada Hitam is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. Its vibrant flavors and tender beef make it a delicious choice for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful taste of this Indonesian classic and share it with your loved ones for a memorable meal.
