Savory Indonesian Beef Ribs Stew (Tongseng Iga Sapi)

Tongseng Iga Sapi: A Delicious Indonesian Beef Ribs Stew

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg beef ribs
• For the spice paste:
  • 5 red shallots
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 1 small piece of turmeric
  • 1 small piece of ginger
  • 2 candlenuts
  • 2 small pieces of galangal
  • Red chilies to taste
• Additional ingredients:
  • 3 stalks lemongrass, smashed
  • 3 bay leaves
  • Cabbage (quantity according to preference), cut into pieces
  • 3 tomatoes, chopped
  • 3 scallions, sliced
  • Whole red chilies for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Begin by blending the red shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, candlenuts, and red chilies into a smooth paste. This mixture forms the flavorful base of your Tongseng Iga Sapi.

2. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • In a large pot or deep skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until it turns golden brown and aromatic. This process will bring out the deep, rich flavors of the spices.

3. Add Aromatics:

   • To the sautéed spice paste, add the smashed lemongrass and bay leaves. Continue cooking until the fragrance is released, which should take just a few minutes.

4. Cook the Beef Ribs:

   • Incorporate the beef ribs into the pot, stirring occasionally until the meat starts to release its oil. This step helps in browning the meat and infusing it with the spices.

5. Add Liquids and Seasonings:

   • Pour in enough water to cover the beef ribs. Stir well to combine. Season with sugar, salt, and seasoning powder to taste, adjusting as needed.

6. Simmer and Add Vegetables:

   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together, usually around 45 minutes to an hour. Add the chopped cabbage and tomatoes towards the end of the cooking time, allowing them to cook until tender but still crisp.

7. Finish and Garnish:

   • Once everything is cooked through and the flavors are well combined, remove the pot from heat. Garnish with sliced scallions and whole red chilies for a bit of extra spice and color.

8. Serve:

   • Serve your Tongseng Iga Sapi hot, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional Indonesian beef ribs stew with your loved ones!

This Tongseng Iga Sapi recipe captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine with its aromatic spices and hearty beef ribs. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings or a comforting meal on a chilly day.