Savory Beef and Tofu Stew with Rich Coconut Sauce

Beef and Tofu Terik: A Rich and Flavorful Delight

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef, thinly sliced
• 20 small tofu cubes
• Coconut milk (both thick and thin) from 1 coconut
• Spice Paste:
  • 6 shallots
  • 8 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon toasted coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon toasted cumin seeds
  • 6 fried candlenuts
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of kencur (aromatic root)
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, crushed
  • Salt to taste
  • Brown sugar (to taste)
  • Galendo (coconut sugar) to taste
  • A splash of tamarind water
  • Cooking oil
  • Fried shallots for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Clean and thinly slice the beef. Set aside.
   • Wash the tofu cubes and briefly fry them until golden brown. Set aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Combine the shallots, garlic cloves, toasted coriander seeds, toasted cumin seeds, candlenuts, black peppercorns, ginger, turmeric, kencur, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend into a smooth paste.
   • Crush the galangal and set it aside. Prepare the bay leaves.

3. Cook the Beef:

   • Heat some cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the spice paste until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced beef to the pan. Stir well to coat the beef with the spices.
   • Pour in the thin coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook until the beef is tender.

4. Add Flavorings:

   • Incorporate the galendo (coconut sugar), brown sugar, and tamarind water into the dish. Stir well.
   • Add the thick coconut milk and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens.

5. Finish the Dish:

   • Gently fold in the fried tofu cubes. Allow the mixture to cook until the flavors meld together and the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, sugar, or tamarind water as needed.

6. Serve:

   • Transfer the Beef and Tofu Terik to a serving dish. Garnish with fried shallots for added flavor and texture.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.

Enjoy this delectable Beef and Tofu Terik, a harmonious blend of rich spices and creamy coconut milk, making it a perfect dish for any occasion!