Rendang Recipe

Rendang at glance: This rich and flavorful beef stew from West Sumatra is often hailed as one of the most delicious dishes in the world. It’s made with tender beef slow-cooked in coconut milk and a mixture of lemongrass, galangal, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and chilies.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef, cut into cubes
• 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
• 2 cups water
• 2 stalks lemongrass, smashed
• 5 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 2 turmeric leaves, torn
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste
• 1 cup grated coconut, toasted (optional)

Spice Paste:

• 6 shallots
• 4 cloves garlic
• 5-6 red chilies
• 1 inch ginger
• 1 inch galangal
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend all the spice paste ingredients until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a large pot, add the spice paste and cook until fragrant.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, water, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric leaves, and tamarind paste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. If using, stir in the toasted grated coconut. Serve with steamed rice.