Spicy Indonesian Beef Tongseng with Coconut and Cabbage

Spicy Tongseng Beef Recipe

Ingredients:

• 250 grams beef (cut into cubes)
• 5 shallots (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (sliced)
• 8 red bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 tomato (chopped)
• ¼ cabbage (shredded, adjust to taste)
• Green onions (chopped coarsely)
• 65 ml coconut milk (such as Kara, boxed)
• 1 packet of gulai seasoning (I use Bamboe brand)
• Sweet soy sauce (to taste)
• Sugar (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)

Steps:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   Begin by heating a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and garlic, and sauté until they release their fragrant aroma.

2. Add Chilies:
   Toss in the sliced bird’s eye chilies and stir briefly to blend with the aromatics. Adjust the amount of chilies based on your preferred spice level.

3. Cook Beef:
   Add the beef cubes to the pan, stirring to coat them with the aromatic mixture. Pour in enough water to cover the beef. Let it simmer until the beef becomes tender.

4. Incorporate Seasoning:
   Once the beef is tender, stir in the gulai seasoning packet. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.

5. Add Coconut Milk:
   Reduce the heat to low and pour in the coconut milk. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Let it cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Season:
   Season the dish with sweet soy sauce, sugar, and salt according to your taste. Adjust the seasoning until you achieve the desired flavor balance.

7. Add Vegetables:
   Stir in the chopped tomato, shredded cabbage, and green onions. Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

8. Serve:
   Serve your spicy Tongseng Beef hot with steaming white rice. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful spiciness of this comforting dish!

This vibrant and flavorful dish brings a taste of Indonesian cuisine to your table with a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes.