Tangy Indonesian Beef Brisket Stew with Chilies and Vegetables

Asem-asem Tetelan Sapi: A Tangy and Flavorful Indonesian Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 3 cloves garlic
• 5 shallots
• 1 bay leaf
• A few slices of galangal
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• 3 tablespoons tamarind water (adjust to taste)
• 7 whole bird’s eye chilies
• 2 carrots
• 1/4 pound beef brisket (cut into chunks)
• A handful of green beans
• Salt to taste
• Beef bouillon powder to taste
• Water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   Begin by boiling the beef brisket in a pot of water until tender. This may take some time, so ensure the beef is thoroughly cooked and soft.

2. Prepare the Aromatics:
   While the beef is cooking, crush the garlic cloves and finely chop the shallots. Lightly crush the galangal slices and set aside. Slice the carrots and green beans lengthwise for even cooking.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a separate pan, heat some oil and sauté the shallots and garlic until they become fragrant. Add the crushed galangal and continue to sauté until aromatic.

4. Combine Ingredients:
   Transfer the sautéed aromatics into the pot with the beef. Add the whole bird’s eye chilies, bay leaf, ginger, tamarind water, salt, and beef bouillon powder. Stir well and let it simmer until the chilies are cooked and the flavors meld together.

5. Add Vegetables:
   Once the broth has developed a rich flavor and the chilies are tender, add the sliced carrots and green beans. Cook briefly until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

6. Finish and Serve:
   Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if necessary. Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the pot from heat. Serve hot and enjoy!

Note: This Indonesian-style beef stew offers a delightful tanginess from the tamarind and a spicy kick from the bird’s eye chilies. Adjust the level of heat and tamarind according to your taste preference.

Enjoy this comforting dish as a satisfying meal, perfect for any time you crave a hearty and flavorful stew!