Rendang - spicy beef

rendang_-_spicy_beef

Indonesia is a vast archipelago that is home to a vast array of cultures and cuisines. One of Indonesia’s most iconic dishes is Rendang, a slow-cooked spicy beef dish that originated from the Minangkabau people of West Sumatra. It is a staple in Indonesian cuisine and is often served during special occasions such as weddings, religious ceremonies, and national holidays.

Rendang is a complex dish that requires a combination of dry and fresh spices to create its distinct flavor. The beef is first simmered in coconut milk, then cooked slowly until the liquid has evaporated, and the meat is tender and coated in a rich, slightly sweet, and intensely savory sauce. The dish is then served with plain rice, or as part of a larger feast.

There are many variations of Rendang, each with its unique combination of ingredients and level of spiciness. However, the base ingredients remain the same. The key spices include lemongrass, galangal or ginger, kaffir lime, garlic, shallots, turmeric, and chili peppers. These spices are combined with toasted coconut, which gives the dish its nutty flavor and thicker consistency.

One of the most crucial steps in preparing Rendang is the slow cooking process. It can take up to seven hours to achieve the perfect texture and flavor, with cooks stirring the pot periodically to prevent the sauce from burning at the bottom. The result is meat that falls apart with a fork and melts in your mouth, infused with a bold and complex blend of spices.

Rendang is also often referred to as a “dry curry” because it lacks the excess liquid that is typical of many other curries. This creates an intensely flavorful and concentrated dish, with a thick, velvety texture that pairs well with steamed white rice. It is also the perfect accompaniment to other Indonesian dishes such as Sate, Nasi Goreng, and Gado Gado.

Rendang has become increasingly popular beyond Indonesia’s borders and is now considered one of the world’s most delicious cuisines. It has been recognized as a “heritage dish” by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for its cultural significance in the region. The dish has also been named as the “number one dish in the world” by CNN’s Culinary Journey series.

Rendang is not only delicious but also healthy. It is high in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for those conscious of their diet. The dish also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that support overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, Rendang is a celebratory dish that is well-loved by Indonesians and people all over the world. It’s rich, complex, and spicy flavor is a testament to the deep cultural heritage and culinary expertise of Indonesia’s Minangkabau people. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a night in with your family, or just trying to add some excitement to dinner, Rendang is a meal that will surely satisfy all cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 lbs of beef cut into cubes
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
  • 5 kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 star anise
  • 6 cloves
  • 1 inch of ginger, grated
  • 10 shallots, sliced thinly
  • 6 garlic cloves, sliced thinly
  • 10 small red chilies, ground into a paste
  • 3 teaspoons tamarind paste
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 can of coconut milk
  • 1 cup of water

Instructions:

  1. Heat up the oil in a wok or large pot over medium heat. Fry the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves until fragrant.
  2. Add in the ginger, shallots, garlic and chili paste. Fry for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and slightly browned.
  3. Add in the beef and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the beef is slightly browned.
  4. Add in the tamarind paste, salt and sugar. Stir well to mix.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 3-4 hours or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  7. Stir occasionally and make sure that the mixture does not dry out. If it does, add more water or coconut milk.
  8. Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, turn off the heat and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes.
  9. Serve hot with steamed rice. Enjoy your spicy and flavorful Indonesian Rendang!