Indonesian Beef and Potato Stew (Semur Daging Sapi dan Kentang)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 kg (1 lb) beef, cut into chunks
- 1/4 kg (1/2 lb) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 stalks lemongrass, smashed
- 2 small blocks palm sugar, finely chopped
- 1 piece galangal (about 2 inches), smashed
- 5 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), adjust to taste
- 2 packets beef flavor seasoning
- 1 packet instant semur seasoning
- 500 ml (2 cups) water for boiling
- 200 ml (3/4 cup) water for cooking
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef:
- In a large pot, bring 500 ml (2 cups) of water to a boil. Add the beef chunks and cook until tender. Once the beef is tender, remove it from the pot, reserving about 100 ml (1/2 cup) of the cooking water.
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Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the bay leaves, smashed galangal, and lemongrass. Sauté until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Add the finely chopped palm sugar to the skillet and continue to cook until the sugar starts to caramelize slightly. Return the tender beef to the skillet along with the reserved beef water.
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Add Seasonings:
- Stir in the instant semur seasoning and beef flavor seasoning. Pour in 200 ml (3/4 cup) of water and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Cook the Potatoes:
- Once boiling, add the potato chunks and sweet soy sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
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Simmer:
- Lower the heat and simmer the stew until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has reduced slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Serve:
- Serve the semur daging sapi and kentang hot with steamed rice for a hearty and flavorful meal.
This savory Indonesian beef and potato stew is a comforting dish, perfect for a satisfying family dinner. The blend of sweet soy sauce, aromatic spices, and tender beef creates a rich and delicious stew that pairs beautifully with rice. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Indonesian cuisine right at home!
