Spicy Beef Sayur Asem: A Tangy Indonesian Delight
Ingredients:
- Green Beans: 1/2 cup, cut into pieces
- Pumpkin: 1/8 kg, diced
- Beef: 500 grams, cleaned and cut into chunks
- Tamarind: 2 pieces (adjust to taste)
- Water: 500 ml (or enough to cover the ingredients)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Beef Flavoring (Optional): Royco seasoning or any beef-flavored seasoning
- Ground Spices:
- Shallots: 4 cloves
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Red Chilies: 5 (adjust to desired spice level)
- Bird’s Eye Chilies: 4 (adjust to desired spice level)
- Melinjo Leaves: A handful (or substitute with spinach if unavailable)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
- Flavor Enhancer: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Steps:
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Prepare the Beef: In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the beef. Cook until the beef is tender.
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Add the Spices: Blend the shallots, garlic, red chilies, and bird’s eye chilies into a smooth paste. Add this spice paste and tamarind to the pot with the beef.
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Season the Broth: Stir in the salt, sugar, and beef flavoring (if using). Adjust the taste to your preference.
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Cook the Vegetables: Add the green beans and diced pumpkin to the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
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Finish with Greens: Add the melinjo leaves (or spinach) and cook until all the vegetables are tender.
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Final Touches: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Turn off the heat.
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Serve: Your spicy Sayur Asem is ready to be enjoyed. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.
This Indonesian classic combines the richness of beef with the tanginess of tamarind and the warmth of spices, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.
