Sweet and Savory Tamarind Beef Stew

Sweet and Sour Beef (Sapi Kecap Asam Manis)

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef, cut into pieces, cleaned
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 15 shallots
  • 10 garlic cloves
  • 100 grams red bird’s eye chilies
  • 3 small pieces palm sugar
  • A handful of tamarind, soaked in 500 ml water
  • 3 stalks lemongrass, smashed
  • 2 segments galangal, smashed
  • Salt and Royco seasoning to taste
  • Sweet soy sauce to taste
  • A bit of oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the shallots, garlic, and red chilies until smooth. Heat a bit of oil in a pan and sauté the blended paste until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Beef:

   • Place the cleaned beef pieces in a pot. Add the tamarind water, palm sugar, lemongrass, and galangal. Cook over medium heat.

3. Simmer the Beef:

   • Continue to cook the beef until it becomes tender. If the liquid starts to evaporate but the beef is still not tender, add more water as needed.

4. Combine the Ingredients:

   • Add the previously sautéed spice paste to the pot. Season with salt and Royco seasoning to taste. Cook until the beef is tender, the flavors are well absorbed, and the liquid has reduced.

5. Finish the Dish:

   • Stir in a small amount of sweet soy sauce, mixing well. Remove from heat and drain if necessary.

6. Serve:

   • Your Sweet and Sour Beef is now ready to be enjoyed.

This recipe highlights a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for a savory dish that brings a rich taste to the table.