Discover how to make Beef Rendang, a delectable slow-cooked dish featuring tender beef simmered in a rich coconut milk and spice mixture. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal, this authentic recipe brings the taste of Indonesia to your kitchen. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a dish full of deep, complex flavors that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck or brisket, cut into cubes

- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2-inch piece of ginger, minced

- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised

- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves

- 2-3 dried red chilies, soaked and blended (adjust for spice level)

- 1 tablespoon ground turmeric

- 1 tablespoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste

- 2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar

- Salt to taste

- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the onions, garlic, ginger, and soaked red chilies. Blend into a smooth paste.

Sear the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Cook the Spice Paste: In the same pot, add the spice paste and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly browned.

Add the Coconut Milk and Spices: Pour in the coconut milk, and add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, tamarind paste, and palm sugar. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Beef: Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Slow-Cook: Cover the pot and let the beef simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally, and add water if needed to prevent burning.

Finish and Serve: Once the beef is tender and the sauce is rich and thick, adjust seasoning with salt and sugar if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy: Serve your Beef Rendang with steamed rice or noodles for a complete and delicious meal.

This Beef Rendang recipe is perfect for those looking to try a traditional Indonesian dish with a rich, savory flavor. Enjoy the slow-cooked goodness and the aromatic spices that make this dish a true standout!

Nutritional Values

Beef Chuck or Brisket

 - Calories: 250

 - Protein: 26g

 - Fat: 18g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in Protein: Essential for muscle growth and repair.

 - Rich in Iron: Helps in red blood cell production and prevents anemia.

 - Contains Zinc: Supports immune function and wound healing.

Coconut Milk

 - Calories: 200

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 20g

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits:

 - Healthy Fats: Provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which may boost metabolism.

 - Rich in Vitamins: Contains vitamins C, E, and several B vitamins which support overall health.

 - Anti-inflammatory Properties: May help reduce inflammation in the body.

Vegetable Oil

 - Calories: 900

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 100g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - Healthy Fats: Depending on the type of oil (e.g., olive oil), it can provide monounsaturated fats which are good for heart health.

 - Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.

Onion

 - Calories: 40

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: ~10g

Benefits:

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Contains quercetin which may reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure.

 - Supports Immune Health: Provides vitamin C and other nutrients that support the immune system.

 - Promotes Digestive Health: Contains prebiotics that help support gut health.

Garlic

 - Calories: 149

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

Benefits:

 - Antimicrobial Properties: Contains allicin which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

 - Heart Health: May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

 - Boosts Immunity: Enhances the immune system and helps fight infections.

Ginger

 - Calories: 80

 - Protein: 1.8g

 - Fat: 0.8g

 - Carbohydrates: 18g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: Helps alleviate nausea and aids digestion.

 - Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and may help with arthritis.

 - Immune Support: Enhances immune function and helps fight infections.

Lemongrass

 - Calories: 99

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 25g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: May help with digestion and reduce bloating.

 - Antimicrobial Properties: Has antibacterial and antifungal effects.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Contains compounds that help protect cells from damage.

Kaffir Lime Leaves

 - Calories: 70

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 15g

Benefits:

 - Antioxidants: Contains compounds that help fight oxidative stress.

 - Digestive Health: May aid digestion and alleviate symptoms like nausea.

 - Flavor Enhancement: Adds a distinctive flavor that can reduce the need for excess salt.

Dried Red Chilies

 - Calories: 318

 - Protein: 14g

 - Fat: 12g

 - Carbohydrates: 58g

Benefits:

 - Boosts Metabolism: Capsaicin can increase metabolic rate.

 - Rich in Vitamins: Provides vitamin C and other antioxidants.

 - Pain Relief: Capsaicin is known for its pain-relieving properties.

Ground Turmeric

 - Calories: 354

 - Protein: 8g

 - Fat: 10g

 - Carbohydrates: 65g

Benefits:

 - Anti-inflammatory: Curcumin helps reduce inflammation and may relieve pain.

 - Antioxidant: Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.

 - Supports Digestion: Aids in digestion and may improve gut health.

Ground Coriander

 - Calories: 298

 - Protein: 12g

 - Fat: 15g

 - Carbohydrates: 55g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: Helps with digestion and can alleviate gas and bloating.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Contains compounds that fight oxidative stress.

 - Blood Sugar Control: May help regulate blood sugar levels.

Ground Cumin

 - Calories: 375

 - Protein: 18g

 - Fat: 22g

 - Carbohydrates: 44g

Benefits:

 - Aids Digestion: Promotes digestive health and may relieve digestive issues.

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that protect against cellular damage.

 - Supports Immunity: Helps boost immune function.

Tamarind Paste

 - Calories: 239

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.6g

 - Carbohydrates: 62g

Benefits:

 - Rich in Vitamins: Provides vitamins A, C, and B vitamins.

 - Digestive Health: Acts as a natural laxative and aids in digestion.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Helps protect the body from oxidative stress.

Palm Sugar or Brown Sugar

 - Calories: 380

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 100g

Benefits:

 - Natural Sweetener: Less processed compared to white sugar, retaining some nutrients.

 - Mineral Content: Contains small amounts of minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium.

Salt

 - Calories: 0

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - Electrolyte Balance: Helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Essential Mineral: Required for proper muscle and nerve function.

Fresh Cilantro

 - Calories: 23

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits:

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that protect against free radical damage.

 - Digestive Health: Aids in digestion and helps detoxify the body.

 - Rich in Vitamins: Provides vitamin A, C, and K.

These ingredients not only contribute to the rich flavor profile of Beef Rendang but also offer various health benefits, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.