Tangy Indonesian Beef Stew with Chilies and Tamarind

Asem-Asem Beef Stew: A Tangy Indonesian Delight

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Asem-Asem Daging Sapi, a beloved Indonesian beef stew renowned for its tangy and spicy profile. This recipe, with its aromatic blend of spices, fresh herbs, and a touch of sweetness, is sure to captivate your taste buds. Perfect for a hearty meal, it’s best served hot with steamed rice and a side of fresh sambal.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef (preferably chuck or brisket), cut into cubes

  Related Articles

  • 
    Savory Beef Teriyaki Stir-Fry: Easy and Flavorful
  • 
    Indonesian Spiced Beef Soup with Crispy Garlic
  • 
    Authentic Indonesian Spicy Beef Empal with Coconut Milk
  • 
    Spicy Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry

• For the Spice Blend:

  • 10 shallots, finely ground
  • 5 garlic cloves, finely ground
  • 8 green chilies, sliced
  • 6 red chilies, sliced
  • 20 red or green bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)

• For the Stew:

  • 3 green tomatoes, chopped
  • 6 starfruit (belimbing wuluh), sliced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste, dissolved in water
  • 5 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 5 cm palm sugar (or brown sugar), grated
  • Salt, to taste
  • Optional: ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: seasoning powder, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:

   • Place the beef cubes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the beef is tender and the broth is flavorful, about 1.5 to 2 hours. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

2. Prepare the Spice Blend:

   • While the beef is cooking, heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the ground shallots and garlic until they are fragrant and golden brown. Add the sliced chilies and cook for a few more minutes until they are softened and aromatic.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add the sautéed spice mixture to the pot with the beef. Stir to combine.

4. Season the Stew:

   • Season the stew with sweet soy sauce, grated palm sugar, and salt. Add black pepper and seasoning powder if desired. Stir well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the seasonings.

5. Add Vegetables:

   • Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and sliced starfruit into the pot. Pour in the tamarind water and mix thoroughly.

6. Simmer:

   • Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the flavors meld together and the vegetables are tender.

7. Serve:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the Asem-Asem Daging Sapi hot, alongside steamed rice and a fresh sambal for an authentic Indonesian experience.

Enjoy this tangy and spicy beef stew that’s sure to bring a burst of flavor to your meal!