Savory Indonesian Beef Stew (Tongseng Sapi)

Tongseng Sapi Recipe

Discover the savory delight of Tongseng Sapi, a traditional Indonesian beef stew that is as comforting as it is flavorful. This recipe transforms tender beef into a rich and aromatic dish with the perfect balance of spices and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 kg beef (cooked and diced)
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 stalk green onion, sliced
• 4 leaves of cabbage, chopped
• 1 piece galangal, crushed
• 1 stalk lemongrass, crushed
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce
• Sugar, salt, and chicken broth powder, to taste

For the Spice Paste:

• 4 shallots
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 piece ginger
• 1 cm turmeric
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, coriander, and black pepper into a smooth paste. This will be the base of your stew’s flavor.

2. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a little oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant.

3. Add Aromatics:

   • Add the crushed lemongrass, galangal, bay leaf, and kaffir lime leaves to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the aromatics release their flavors.

4. Cook the Beef:

   • Add the diced beef to the pot. Stir well to coat the beef with the spice paste. Cook for a few minutes.

5. Add Water:

   • Pour in 1 cup of water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the beef is tender.

6. Incorporate Vegetables:

   • Once the beef is tender, add the chopped cabbage, tomato, and green onion. Stir to combine.

7. Season to Taste:

   • Season the stew with sweet soy sauce, sugar, salt, and chicken broth powder. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

8. Simmer:

   • Continue to cook until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well combined. Ensure the beef is fully cooked and has absorbed the rich spices.

9. Serve:

   • Serve the Tongseng Sapi hot, ideally with steamed rice to soak up the delicious broth.

Enjoy this hearty and aromatic dish that brings a touch of Indonesian flavor to your table. Perfect for a comforting family meal or a delightful dinner with friends.