Authentic Indonesian Beef Rendang: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg beef stewing steak, cut into large chunks
  • 400 ml can coconut milk
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
  • 6 kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 tsp tamarind paste
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Spice paste:
  • 5 shallots
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 red chillies
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin

Steps and instructions

  1. Make the spice paste: peel and roughly chop the shallots, garlic and ginger. Deseed and chop the chilies. Using a food processor, blend together all the ingredients for the spice paste until smooth.
  2. Heat a large, non-stick frying pan. Add the spice paste, and fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the beef to the pan and brown on all sides. This will seal in the juices and give the meat a nice color.
  4. Transfer the beef and spice paste to a large casserole pot. Add the coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, tamarind paste, sugar and salt. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and leave to simmer for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Remove the lemongrass and lime leaves. Check the seasoning, adding more salt or sugar if needed.
  7. Serve the Beef Rendang with steamed rice and enjoy.

Tools for making

  • Large casserole pot - A large pot with a lid, used for simmering the beef and sauce.
  • Non-stick frying pan - A frying pan with a non-stick coating, used for browning the beef and frying the spice paste.
  • Food processor - A kitchen appliance used for blending the ingredients to make the spice paste.

Recipe variations

  • Chicken Rendang: Substitute the beef with boneless chicken thighs or breast.
  • Lamb Rendang: Replace the beef with lamb meat for a rich and flavorful variation.
  • Vegetable Rendang: Skip the meat altogether and use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and green beans.
  • Tofu Rendang: For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the meat with firm tofu.
  • Seafood Rendang: Use prawns, fish, or a combination of seafood to create a delicious seafood rendang.
  • Spicier Rendang: Increase the amount of red chilies or add some chili flakes or powder for an extra kick of heat.
  • Milder Rendang: Reduce the amount of red chilies or use mild green chilies for a milder version.
  • Crunchy Rendang: Add toasted desiccated coconut or fried shallots as a topping for some added texture.
  • Herb-infused Rendang: Add fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint to enhance the flavors.
  • Gluten-free Rendang: Ensure all ingredients used, including soy sauce or other condiments, are gluten-free.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the rich and succulent flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this traditional Beef Rendang recipe. Popular in Southeast Asia, this dish is known for its spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile, which comes from a special spice paste and slow-cooking process. The beef, stewed in coconut milk and a medley of warm spices, becomes tender and absorbs all the beautiful flavors of the sauce. It's a bit of a slow cook, but well worth the wait. The final result is a comforting, aromatic, and deeply flavored dish that pairs perfectly with a side of steamed rice. Discover the depth of Asian flavors with this Beef Rendang.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?
    Yes, you can use other types of meat such as chicken or lamb to make a variation of this dish.
  2. Can I use powdered spices instead of fresh ones?
    Yes, you can use powdered spices as a substitute for fresh ones. However, the flavor may vary slightly.
  3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
    Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps until transferring the beef and spice paste to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
  4. Can I freeze the Beef Rendang?
    Yes, Beef Rendang freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  5. Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
    Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer chilies in the spice paste. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for a milder flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Rendang is steeped in the rich cultural tapestry of the Minangkabau people of West Sumatra, Indonesia. Long ago, they concocted this slow-cooked delicacy to preserve surplus meat, thus sustaining their nomadic lifestyle. The long, slow cooking process not only preserved the meat, but it also allowed the flavors of the spices and coconut milk to deeply permeate the beef, giving Rendang its unique taste. It's not just a meal, it's a mouthwatering reflection of a culture that honours community, harmony, and the richness of nature. Today, its enduring popularity has seen it being voted one of the world's most delicious dishes. Indeed, to taste Rendang is to embark on a culinary journey through time and culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.