Spicy Indonesian Beef Ribs (Iga Sapi Rica-Rica)

Ingredients

• 1/2 kg beef ribs
• 10 shallots
• 7 cloves garlic
• 10 red curly chilies
• 8 red bird’s eye chilies
• 5 green curly chilies
• A small piece of ginger
• 2 stalks lemongrass
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• Fresh basil leaves (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Seasoning (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Ribs:
   Begin by boiling the beef ribs in water until tender. This process may take some time, so ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   While the ribs are cooking, prepare the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, ginger, red curly chilies, red bird’s eye chilies, and green curly chilies. Blend until you achieve a smooth, consistent paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:
   Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until the mixture is fully cooked and fragrant. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavors and removes the raw taste of the spices.

4. Combine Ribs and Spice Paste:
   Once the spice paste is fully cooked, add the boiled beef ribs to the pan. Stir to coat the ribs with the spice mixture.

5. Add Broth and Simmer:
   Pour in some of the broth from the beef rib boiling process. Stir well and let the mixture simmer. Allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, adjusting seasoning with salt, seasoning, and pepper to taste.

6. Add Aromatics:
   Add the lemongrass, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves to the pan. These will infuse the dish with additional layers of flavor.

7. Finish with Basil:
   Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil leaves. Cook for a few more minutes to let the basil release its aroma.

8. Serve:
   Remove from heat and transfer the spicy beef ribs to a serving dish. Enjoy this flavorful, aromatic dish with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal.

This vibrant dish, known as Iga Sapi Rica-Rica, brings a delightful blend of spicy and aromatic flavors to the table. The tender beef ribs are enhanced by a rich, fragrant spice paste, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.