Spicy Coconut Beef Intestines with Crispy Tofu

This dish, known as Usus Sapi Rempah Kelapa, features tender beef intestines combined with rich and aromatic spices, all simmered in a coconut-infused sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying option that pairs beautifully with crispy tofu and a sprinkle of fried shallots. Here’s how you can recreate this savory delight at home.

Ingredients

• Beef Intestines:

  • 250 grams of beef intestines, boiled for 1 hour and cut into small pieces

• Fried Tofu:

  • 5 pieces of fried tofu, cut into cubes

• Spice Paste:

  • 7 fried shallots
  • 4 fried garlic cloves
  • 4 large red chilies
  • 10 bird’s eye chilies
  • 1-inch piece of galangal
  • 1-inch piece of ginger
  • 1-inch piece of kencur (aromatic root)
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves
  • 1 cup young grated coconut, blended with the spice paste

• Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 star anise
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves

• Seasonings:

  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • Seasoning powder (to taste)

• Others:

  • 1 bowl of water
  • Fried shallots (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Cut the boiled beef intestines into small, bite-sized pieces.
   • Cube the fried tofu and set aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the fried shallots, fried garlic cloves, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, galangal, ginger, kencur, and kaffir lime leaves into a smooth paste.
   • Combine this spice paste with the grated young coconut in a blender to create a rich, aromatic mixture.

3. Cook the Dish:

   • Heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan.
   • Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant.
   • Add the beef intestines, star anise, and kaffir lime leaves.
   • Pour in 1 bowl of water and season with salt and seasoning powder to taste.
   • Simmer until the liquid reduces and the flavors meld together, stirring occasionally.

4. Finish the Dish:

   • Add the fried tofu cubes to the pan.
   • Stir gently until the tofu is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
   • Adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with fried shallots for added crunch and flavor.
   • Serve hot, optionally with a side of watermelon to balance the spiciness and add a refreshing touch.

Tips

• For a more balanced meal, consider serving this dish with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
• Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference.
• Ensure the beef intestines are well-boiled and tender for the best texture in the dish.

Enjoy the rich and vibrant flavors of this traditional recipe, perfect for a hearty meal with a touch of spice and coconut goodness.