Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of this special beef rendang curry. Slow-cooked with a blend of aromatic spices and coconut milk, the tender beef becomes infused with a divine taste. The fiery heat of chili peppers is balanced with the sweetness of caramelized onions, resulting in a mouth-watering dish that will satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal. Serve it with steamed rice and enjoy this traditional Indonesian dish that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Southeast Asia.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef, cut into cubes
- 4 shallots, sliced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 inches ginger, grated
- 4 lemongrass stalks, bruised
- 4 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cardamom pods
- 4 star anise
- 4 cloves
- 6 dried red chilies, soaked in hot water
- 4 fresh red chilies, chopped
- 2 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 2 cans coconut milk
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 2 tbsp palm sugar
- Salt, to taste
Directions
- In a blender, combine the soaked dried red chilies, fresh red chilies, shallots, garlic, ginger, and turmeric powder. Blend until a smooth paste is formed.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the coconut milk, lemongrass stalks, kaffir lime leaves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, star anise, cloves, coriander powder, cumin powder, tamarind paste, and palm sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Remove the lid and continue simmering for another 30 minutes to allow the sauce to further reduce and deepen in flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
- Serve the special beef rendang curry hot with steamed rice.
- Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Rendang is a traditional Indonesian dish that originated from the Minangkabau ethnic group.
The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to develop and intensify, making the beef rendang curry even more delicious over time.
Beef rendang is often served during festive occasions and special events in Indonesia.
The dish is popular in various Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia and Singapore.
The spices used in beef rendang, such as cloves and star anise, give it a distinct and aromatic taste.