Spicy Indonesian Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry

Sapi Lada Hitam (Indonesian Black Pepper Beef)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg beef (sliced thinly)
• 4 red chilies
• 10 bird’s eye chilies
• 1/2 large onion
• 1 clove garlic
• 3 shallots
• 3 tablespoons black pepper powder
• 2 tablespoons white pepper powder
• 1/2 stalk green onion
• Beef broth (as needed)
• Sweet soy sauce (as needed)
• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   Begin by washing the beef thoroughly. Place the beef in a pot and boil until tender. Once cooked, drain the beef and set aside, reserving the beef broth for later use.

2. Prepare the Aromatics:
   Slice the garlic, shallots, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and onion. Ensure the slices are finely cut to maximize their flavor infusion.

3. Cook the Aromatics:
   Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, shallots, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, and onion. Sauté until the mixture is fragrant and the onions become translucent.

4. Add the Beef:
   Introduce the sliced beef into the skillet. Stir well to combine with the aromatic mixture.

5. Simmer with Seasonings:
   Pour in the reserved beef broth and add a splash of sweet soy sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer until the broth reduces by half, leaving approximately two cups of liquid.

6. Season the Dish:
   Stir in the oyster sauce, a pinch of salt, black pepper powder, and white pepper powder. Mix well to incorporate all the seasonings. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Finish with Green Onion:
   Chop the green onion and add it to the skillet. Stir briefly until the green onions are just wilted.

8. Serve:
   Transfer the Sapi Lada Hitam to a serving dish. Serve hot and enjoy with steamed rice or as a flavorful main dish in your meal.

This savory Indonesian black pepper beef offers a rich, spicy flavor balanced by the sweetness of soy sauce and the umami of oyster sauce. Perfect for a hearty meal, it pairs beautifully with a side of rice or steamed vegetables.