Beef Rendang

Beef Rendang

Aromatic Indonesian slow-cooked beef in coconut curry

Yield SERVES 6-8
Prep Time
Cook Time
Total Time
Difficulty MEDIUM

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spice paste
    Blend all the spice paste ingredients (shallots, garlic, dried chilies, galangal, and ginger) in a food processor with a splash of water until smooth. This may take 5-10 minutes to achieve the right consistency.
  2. Begin the cooking process
    Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and stir continuously for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.
  3. Add meat and aromatics
    Add the beef cubes to the pot and stir to coat with the spice paste. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric leaves (if using), and cinnamon stick. Stir well to combine.
  4. Simmer and reduce
    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add tamarind paste, palm sugar, and salt. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Simmer uncovered for about 3-4 hours, stirring more frequently as the liquid reduces.
  5. Caramelize the meat
    The rendang is done when the liquid has almost completely evaporated and the meat is fork-tender. The oil from the coconut milk will separate and the meat will turn dark brown and caramelize. This final stage is crucial for authentic rendang flavor.
  6. Rest and serve
    Remove from heat and let the rendang rest for at least 30 minutes before serving. Rendang tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop and intensify overnight.

Nutritional Information

520
Calories
per serving
35
Protein
g per serving
12
Carbohydrates
g per serving
38
Total Fat
g per serving
22
Saturated Fat
g per serving
3
Fiber
g per serving
6
Sugar
g per serving
680
Sodium
mg per serving
15
Vitamin C
% of daily value
25
Iron
% of daily value

Beef Rendang is Also Known As

Rendang Daging, Caramelized Beef Curry, Padang Beef Curry, Randang or Indonesian Dry Beef Curry