Asam-asam Iga Sapi: A Tangy Indonesian Beef Ribs Delight
Asam-asam Iga Sapi is a flavorful Indonesian beef rib dish characterized by its tangy and spicy profile. This recipe combines tender beef ribs with aromatic spices and the distinctive sourness of belimbing wuluh (bilimbi), making it a perfect dish for those who appreciate a burst of vibrant flavors. Follow these steps to create a delicious Asam-asam Iga Sapi that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef ribs (Iga Sapi)
- 8 shallots, thinly sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, crushed
- 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric, crushed
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, crushed
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 stalk lemongrass, crushed
- 10 bilimbi fruits (belimbing wuluh), sliced
- 5 large red chilies, sliced (adjust according to your spice preference)
- Cooking oil
- Salt, to taste
- Granulated sugar, to taste
- Water or beef broth, as needed
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef Ribs:
Begin by boiling the beef ribs in a pot of water with a pinch of salt until they are half-tender. This step helps to infuse the meat with flavor and ensure it becomes tender by the end of cooking. Once the ribs are partially cooked, remove them from the pot and set them aside. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat a small amount of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and minced garlic to the pan, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. Add the crushed galangal, turmeric, ginger, and lemongrass to the pan, stirring to release their essential oils and aromas. -
Combine Ingredients:
Return the beef ribs to the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Pour in enough beef broth or water to cover the ribs. Add the bay leaves, sliced bilimbi fruits, and red chilies to the pan. Season the dish with granulated sugar and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. -
Simmer the Dish:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the Asam-asam Iga Sapi to simmer gently until the beef ribs are fully tender and the flavors have melded together. This should take about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size and cut of the ribs. -
Serve:
Once the beef ribs are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Asam-asam Iga Sapi hot with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal. The tangy, spicy flavor of this dish is sure to be a hit at your dining table.
Enjoy this delicious Asam-asam Iga Sapi, a true representation of Indonesian cuisine that brings together the richness of beef ribs with a vibrant blend of spices and tanginess.
