Dendeng Sapi: A Delicious Indonesian Beef Treat
Dendeng Sapi is a beloved Indonesian dish featuring tender beef strips, marinated and fried to perfection, then simmered in a rich, spicy sambal. This flavorful recipe is a fantastic option for a savory meal that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or as a tasty snack. Here’s how to make this scrumptious dish at home:
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of beef (sliced thinly)
- Salt and sugar (to taste)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Marinade:
- 5 cloves garlic
- 1.5 tablespoons coriander seeds
- A pinch of salt
For the Sambal:
- 20 curly red chilies
- 10 shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
Instructions:
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Prepare the Marinade:
- Start by grinding the garlic, coriander seeds, and a pinch of salt into a coarse paste. You can use a mortar and pestle for an authentic texture.
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Marinate the Beef:
- Place the thinly sliced beef in a pan. Rub the beef evenly with the ground marinade. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef becomes tender. Be sure to retain the leftover cooking liquid.
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Prepare the Sambal:
- While waiting for the beef to cook, grind the red chilies, shallots, and garlic into a coarse paste.
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Tenderize the Beef:
- Once the beef is tender, let it cool slightly. Use a stone grinder or heavy object to pound the beef until it flattens out and becomes slightly wider.
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Fry the Beef:
- Heat some cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the pounded beef slices briefly until they become crispy but not overly dry. Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Cook the Sambal:
- In the same pan, sauté the prepared sambal paste until fragrant. Add the reserved cooking liquid from the beef, mixing well. Season with salt and sugar to taste. Simmer until the sambal is fully cooked and slightly thickened.
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Combine and Serve:
- Add the fried beef back into the sambal, stirring to coat the beef evenly. Cook for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld. Turn off the heat and serve the Dendeng Sapi warm.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of tamarind water or a dash of palm sugar to the sambal.
- Adjust the spiciness of the sambal by varying the amount of red chilies according to your preference.
Enjoy your Dendeng Sapi as a delightful addition to any meal or as a stand-alone treat. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a truly irresistible dish!
