Spicy Indonesian Beef Tendon Curry

Title: Savory Kalio Kikil Sapi (Indonesian Beef Tendon Curry)

Ingredients:

• 350 grams semi-cooked beef tendon, cut into pieces
• 300 ml coconut milk (I used 150 ml instant coconut milk + water)
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, bruised
• 1 bay leaf (I used a bay leaf)
• 2 kaffir lime leaves, stems removed
• Sugar or palm sugar to taste
• Salt to taste
• Tamarind water to taste (I used lime juice)
• Optional: stock powder or cube
• Oil for sautéing

Spice Paste:

• 4 shallots
• 3 cloves garlic
• 3 candlenuts, roasted
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds, roasted
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
• 2 red chilies (remove seeds if you prefer less heat)
• Bird’s eye chilies to taste

Steps:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: Blend the shallots, garlic, roasted candlenuts, roasted coriander seeds, ginger, turmeric, red chilies, and bird’s eye chilies until smooth.

2. Sauté the Spice Paste: In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the spice paste until fragrant and the color slightly changes.

3. Add Aromatics: Add the bruised lemongrass, bay leaf, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves to the pan. Stir to combine.

4. Incorporate Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir well.

5. Add Beef Tendon: Add the cut beef tendon pieces to the pan. Season with salt, sugar, stock powder or cube (if using), and tamarind water. Mix well.

6. Cook Until Tender: Simmer the mixture until the beef tendon is tender and the flavors have melded. If the tendon isn’t tender and the liquid reduces too much, you can add water little by little and continue cooking until the tendon reaches the desired tenderness. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Serve: Once the beef tendon is tender and the flavors are well absorbed, remove from heat and serve. Enjoy your Savory Kalio Kikil Sapi with steamed rice.

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this savory Kalio Kikil Sapi. The tender beef tendon, infused with a medley of fragrant spices and creamy coconut milk, promises a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this dish brings a taste of Indonesia right to your table. Enjoy!