Authentic Malaysian Daging Salai (Smoked Meat) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of beef, cut into thin strips
  • 2 stalks of lemongrass, smashed
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
  • 5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 3 dried chillies, soaked in warm water
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of cooking oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by preparing the beef. Season with salt and leave it to marinate for about 15 minutes.
  2. While the beef is marinating, prepare the spice paste. Blend the ginger, garlic, onions, and soaked chillies until it forms a smooth paste.
  3. Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste, lemongrass, turmeric powder and stir fry until fragrant.
  4. Add the marinated beef to the pan. Stir well to ensure the beef is coated with the spice mix.
  5. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until the beef is tender.
  6. Add the tamarind paste and sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 10 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  8. Once the beef is tender and the flavours are well combined, remove from heat and serve.

Tools for making

  • Cutting Board - Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting the beef into thin strips and chopping the ingredients.
  • Blender or Food Processor - Needed to blend the spice paste until smooth.
  • Pan - Used for cooking the beef and simmering it with the spice mix.
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Measuring Spoons - Needed to accurately measure the turmeric powder, tamarind paste, sugar, and salt.
  • Cooking Oil - Necessary for frying and sautéing the ingredients.
  • Cover or Lid - Used to cover the pan while simmering the beef.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute beef with chicken or lamb for a different protein option.
  • For a spicier version, add more dried chillies or fresh chili peppers.
  • Add vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added texture and flavor.
  • Replace tamarind paste with lime juice for a tangy twist.
  • Experiment with different spices like cumin or coriander for a unique flavor profile.
  • If you prefer a smoky flavor, grill or smoke the beef before adding it to the dish.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the meat with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Add coconut milk to create a creamy and rich sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added freshness.

Recipe overview

Daging Salai, or Smoked Beef, is a popular dish from Malaysia that is both savory and flavorful. This recipe takes you through the process of marinating beef in a rich spice blend, which is then slowly cooked to tender perfection. With ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric, this dish is bursting with the aromatic flavors typical of Southeast Asian cuisine. Accompanied by a hint of spice from dried chillies and a tangy touch from tamarind paste, Daging Salai will certainly delight your tastebuds. Whether served as a main course or a hearty side, this dish is sure to be a hit. Expect to spend about an hour preparing and cooking, but rest assured that the final result is well worth the effort. Enjoy the journey of making this traditional Malaysian dish!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or lamb if you prefer.
  2. Can I use fresh chillies instead of dried chillies? Yes, you can use fresh chillies instead of dried ones. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
  3. How can I make this dish less spicy? To make the dish less spicy, reduce the amount of dried chillies or omit them altogether. You can also remove the seeds from the chillies before using.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the daging salai ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop further. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  5. What can I serve with daging salai? Daging salai is commonly served with steamed rice, sliced cucumbers, and a side of sambal or pickles.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Daging Salai, a traditional Malaysian dish, is deeply intertwined with the vibrant culture and history of the region. Its distinctive flavor profiles encapsulate the rich diversity of Malaysian cuisine, known for its harmonious fusion of different culinary traditions. The term 'salai' refers to the smoking technique used to preserve meat in the olden days. This technique infuses the meat with a unique smoky flavor, making Daging Salai an irresistible delight. Originating from the Negeri Sembilan region, known for its 'Minangkabau' culture, this dish has become an integral part of feasts and celebrations. Interestingly, the 'Minangkabau' culture is a matrilineal society, a rarity in the world, where property and land pass down from mother to daughter. So, while enjoying this delectable dish, you're not only savoring a culinary masterpiece but also partaking in a tradition nurtured by a unique matriarchal society.

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.

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