Sweet Soy Beef Stew with Aromatic Spices

Sweet Soy Braised Beef

Ingredients:

• 500g beef, cut into small cubes
• 6 shallots, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 7 bird’s eye chilies, thinly sliced
• A thumb-sized piece of ginger, smashed
• Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), to taste
• Soy sauce (kecap asin), to taste
• Granulated sugar, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Beef stock, as needed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • In a large pot, add the beef cubes along with the smashed ginger. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the beef is tender, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours. Drain and set the beef aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Heat a splash of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots, garlic, and bird’s eye chilies. Sauté until fragrant and the shallots become translucent.

3. Combine Beef and Aromatics:

   • Add the cooked beef to the skillet with the aromatics. Stir well to combine.

4. Add Stock and Seasonings:

   • Pour in enough beef stock to just cover the beef. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add sweet soy sauce, soy sauce, granulated sugar, and salt to taste. Stir to dissolve the sugar and incorporate the seasonings.

5. Simmer and Reduce:

   • Allow the mixture to simmer until the liquid reduces and thickens, and the flavors meld together. This should take about 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Final Touches:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, sugar, or soy sauce as desired.

7. Serve:

   • Once the sauce has thickened and the beef is well-coated with the flavorful glaze, remove from heat. Serve the Sweet Soy Braised Beef over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Enjoy this rich and savory dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal!