Semur Betawi: Beef and Tofu Stew
Experience the rich and comforting flavors of Semur Betawi, a traditional Indonesian beef stew that beautifully combines tender meat and tofu with fragrant spices. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, showcasing a delightful balance of sweetness and savory notes, all enhanced by a medley of aromatic ingredients.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (chuck or shank) | 1/2 kg |
| Firm tofu | 1 block, fried until half-cooked |
| Lemongrass | 2 stalks, bruised |
| Cinnamon sticks | 3 pieces |
| Cloves | 5 pieces |
| Galangal | 2 segments, bruised |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | 50 ml |
| Hot water | As needed |
| Ground spices: | |
| Shallots | 10 pieces |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 segment |
| White pepper, nutmeg, salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Beef: Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces. Rub the beef with the ground spice mixture—made from shallots, garlic, ginger, white pepper, nutmeg, and salt—ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour to enhance the flavors.
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Cook the Beef: In a pot, place the marinated beef and add enough hot water to cover the meat. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook until the beef is half-tender. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add Aromatics: Once the beef is partially cooked, add the bruised lemongrass, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and galangal. Stir in the sweet soy sauce, adjusting the amount to your preferred level of sweetness. If the beef is not yet tender, continue cooking, adding more hot water as necessary.
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Incorporate the Tofu: After the beef has reached your desired tenderness, gently add the fried tofu into the pot. Allow the stew to simmer until the sauce thickens and the flavors deepen. The tofu will absorb the rich sauce, complementing the beef perfectly.
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Serve: Once the stew has thickened to your liking, remove it from heat. Serve the Semur Betawi hot, garnished with crispy fried shallots for an added crunch and flavor.
This hearty Semur Betawi is best enjoyed with steamed rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of tender beef and flavorful tofu, along with the aromatic spices, will undoubtedly warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends, and experience a true taste of Indonesia!
