Introduction:
Sweet and Sour Beef, also known as Asam Manis Daging Sapi in Indonesian, is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. This Indonesian classic is enjoyed at family gatherings and special occasions and can easily be adapted to suit your personal taste. The dish is rich in flavor, thanks to a mix of sweet soy sauce, tamarind, and chili, which give it a deep complexity that makes it irresistibly delicious.
This comprehensive recipe will guide you through creating an authentic version of this dish, ensuring that every detail, from ingredients to preparation tips, is covered. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Needed Equipment:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large pot (for boiling beef)
- Large frying pan or wok
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Serving platter
- Tongs
- Spoon
Tags:
- Sweet and sour
- Beef
- Indonesian cuisine
- Family dinner
- Main course
- Savory and tangy
Serving Size:
- Serves 4-6 people
Difficulty Level:
- Moderate
Allergen Information:
- Contains soy (from soy sauce)
- Contains seafood (from oyster sauce, can be replaced with a vegetarian alternative)
- Gluten-free options can be considered by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce
Dietary Preference:
- This dish can be adjusted for those with gluten sensitivities by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with tofu or a meat alternative, and use a plant-based oyster sauce.
Course:
- Main course
Cuisine:
- Indonesian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (thinly sliced strips) | 100 grams (3.5 oz) |
| Carrot (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Bird’s eye chilies (sliced) | 3 (adjust for heat) |
| Green onions (sliced) | 2 stalks |
| Shallots (sliced) | 3 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Tomato (diced) | 1 medium |
| Ginger (small piece) | For boiling beef |
| Tamarind | Splash, to taste |
| Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) | To taste |
| Oyster sauce (Saori) | To taste |
| Chili sauce | To taste |
| Butter or oil | For sautéing |
| Water | As needed |
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Begin by cleaning the beef thoroughly. Slice it into long, thin strips for easier cooking and better texture. To remove any strong odors, boil the beef in water with a small piece of ginger and a pinch of salt until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pan or wok, heat a small amount of butter or oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots, minced garlic, and onion. Sauté them until they are fragrant and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the dish’s rich aroma.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced bird’s eye chilies and carrots to the sautéed shallots and garlic. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the carrots begin to soften slightly.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the boiled beef strips to the pan, ensuring that the beef is evenly mixed with the aromatic vegetables. Stir well to coat the beef with the fragrant mixture.
- Season the Dish:
- Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients in the pan. Add the sliced green onions, granulated sugar, salt, diced tomato, and a splash of tamarind for that essential tangy kick. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer over low heat, letting the sauce thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together for 10-15 minutes.
- Finish the Dish:
- Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, add the sweet soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili sauce to taste. Stir well to combine the flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with the perfect balance of sweetness, savoriness, and spice.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Sweet and Sour Beef to a serving dish. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles to complement the rich flavors of the beef and sauce.
Preparation Tips:
- Make sure to slice the beef thinly, as it helps the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
- Adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer bird’s eye chilies, depending on your preference.
- If tamarind is unavailable, you can use a small amount of lime juice or vinegar to add acidity to the dish.
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Fats | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Tips and Tricks:
- For an extra tender texture, marinate the beef in sweet soy sauce and a little cornstarch for 15 minutes before cooking.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added texture and nutrients.
- A slow simmer is key to allowing the beef to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Add-ons:
- Serve with a side of fresh cucumber slices or a light vegetable stir-fry to balance the richness of the beef.
- Top with fried shallots for added crunch and flavor.
Side Dishes:
- Steamed jasmine rice is a perfect accompaniment, helping to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles, can also work well with this dish.
Improvements:
- For a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the number of bird’s eye chilies or add a spoonful of chili paste.
Save and Store:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
- This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQ:
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute chicken or even tofu for the beef in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken and tofu cook faster than beef.
- How can I make this dish less spicy? Reduce or omit the bird’s eye chilies, and replace the chili sauce with tomato sauce for a milder flavor.
- What can I use if I don’t have tamarind? Lime juice or vinegar can be used as a substitute for tamarind to provide the necessary tanginess.
Conclusion: Sweet and Sour Beef (Asam Manis Daging Sapi) is a fantastic dish that brings together a wide array of flavors—sweet, tangy, and savory. The tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich, aromatic sauce make this meal a favorite for many. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can recreate this beloved Indonesian dish in your own kitchen, perfect for family meals or special occasions. The flexibility of the recipe allows for substitutions and adjustments, making it accessible and customizable for every cook.
