Beef Rendang

Ingredients:

For the Beef Marinade:

• 1 kg beef, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rendang Paste:

• 10-12 dried red chilies, soaked in hot water
• 1 large onion, roughly chopped
• 5 cloves garlic
• 2 stalks lemongrass, sliced (use the tender part)
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1 thumb-sized galangal, peeled and sliced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 cup water (for blending)

Other Ingredients:

• 2 cans (800ml) coconut milk
• 4 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
• Salt and sugar to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:

   • In a bowl, mix the beef with turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, pepper, and vegetable oil. Ensure the beef is well-coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Rendang Paste:

   • In a blender, combine the soaked dried chilies, onion, garlic, lemongrass, ginger, galangal, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and water. Blend into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Beef:

   • In a large pot or wok, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the rendang paste and sauté until fragrant.
   • Add the marinated beef and cook until it’s browned on all sides.

4. Add Coconut Milk:

   • Pour in the coconut milk and add kaffir lime leaves and bruised lemongrass.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally.

5. Simmer Until Thickened:

   • Allow the beef to simmer in the coconut milk until the liquid has reduced, and the beef is tender. This may take 2-3 hours. Be patient; the slow cooking process enhances the flavors.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Season with salt and sugar to taste. The rendang should have a thick, flavorful sauce coating the beef.

7. Serve:

   • Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat.
   • Serve the Beef Rendang over a bed of steamed rice.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Rendang with rice! This dish is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to a flavorful Malaysian delight.