Sweet and Tangy Indonesian Beef Stew (Asem-Asem Daging Sapi)

Asem-Asem Daging Sapi: A Delightful Sweet-Sour Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 1/4 kg beef, cut into small pieces
• 100 grams green beans, sliced
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 tomato, sliced
• For the Spice Mix:
  • Tamarind, to taste
  • 4 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
  • 6 large green chilies, sliced
  • 4 red curly chilies, sliced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 piece of galangal, crushed
  • Sweet soy sauce
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • Flavor enhancer (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • In a pot, boil the beef pieces until tender. Reserve the beef broth for later use in the stew.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots, garlic, and onion. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.

3. Add Chilies and Herbs:

   • Incorporate the sliced green and red chilies, bay leaf, and crushed galangal into the pan. Continue to sauté until the spices release their aroma.

4. Cook the Vegetables:

   • Add the sliced green beans and carrots to the pan. Stir well to mix with the aromatic spices. Pour in a splash of sweet soy sauce and stir to coat the vegetables.

5. Combine Ingredients:

   • Transfer the sautéed mixture into the pot with the reserved beef broth. Stir to combine.

6. Season the Stew:

   • Add tamarind to the pot, adjusting to achieve the desired level of tanginess. Season with salt, sugar, and optional flavor enhancer. Stir well.

7. Simmer:

   • Bring the stew to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

8. Add the Tomato:

   • Finally, add the sliced tomato to the stew. Cook for a few more minutes until the tomato softens.

9. Finish and Serve:

   • Turn off the heat. Your Asem-Asem Daging is ready to be served. Enjoy this delightful stew with steamed rice.

This traditional Indonesian dish, characterized by its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this Asem-Asem Daging Sapi is sure to become a favorite at your table.