Tongseng Sapi (Indonesian Beef Stew)

Ingredients

• 1/2 kg (1.1 lbs) high-quality beef, thinly sliced
• 5 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1 tbsp curry powder (I use Pohon Mangga brand)
• 5 tbsp sweet soy sauce, adjust to taste
• 1/2 tsp ground pepper
• Red bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
• Medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 tomato, quartered
• 1 liter (4.2 cups) water
• 500 ml (2 cups) thick coconut milk
• 3 tbsp cooking oil for sautéing
• 2 tbsp coriander seeds, toasted
• 10 shallots
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 nutmeg
• 1 tsp salt

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Slice the beef into thin squares, wash thoroughly, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

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   • Grind the toasted coriander seeds, shallots, garlic, cumin seeds, nutmeg, and salt into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.

3. Sauté the Spices:

   • Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the spice paste and curry powder, sauté until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced beef, stirring until the beef changes color and is well-coated with the spice mixture.

4. Add Aromatics:

   • Add the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and bruised lemongrass. Stir well to combine.

5. Cook the Beef:

   • Pour in the water, stir, and bring to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat and simmer until the beef is tender and the flavors are well absorbed, about 30-40 minutes.

6. Incorporate Coconut Milk:

   • Add the thick coconut milk, sweet soy sauce, ground pepper, and additional salt if needed.
   • Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.

7. Add Vegetables:

   • Add the quartered tomato, sliced chilies, and cabbage.
   • Cook briefly until the vegetables are just tender, about 5-10 minutes.
   • Adjust the seasoning to taste.

8. Serve:

   • Remove from heat and transfer to a serving bowl.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian meal spread.

Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic Tongseng Sapi, a deliciously spiced Indonesian beef stew that’s sure to delight your taste buds!