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Indonesian Beef Pot 3

Serves 4 to 6 Entree meat

Indonesian Beef Pot 3

Indonesian Beef Pot 3 is a staple of home cooking, celebrated for its simplicity and heartiness. This dish is a reflection of the everyday meals found across Indonesian home tables, where the recipe is passed down through generations, unbound by strict measurements and guided instead by instinct and experience. It’s a dish that finds its place at any meal, whether it’s a regular weekday dinner or an informal gathering with close family.

The flavors are straightforward and comforting, with tender beef cubes simmering alongside sweet carrots and aromatic onion. The generous use of fat enriches the broth, creating a savory depth that’s balanced by the hand-measured salt and pepper. This dish is best enjoyed with warm rice, inviting everyone at the table to share in its comforting embrace.

Ingredients

  • 800 gbeef cubes
  • 2carrots
  • 1onion
  • 2 tbspoil
  • 500 mlwater
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Start by seasoning the 800 g of beef cubes with a generous amount of fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the natural flavors of the beef and ensure it is well-seasoned throughout.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned beef cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides until each piece develops a deep, rich color, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This browning process is crucial for building flavor.
  3. While the beef is browning, peel and slice 2 carrots into thick rounds and chop 1 onion into medium-sized pieces. These vegetables will add sweetness and depth to the dish.
  4. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and carrot slices. Sauté them in the remaining oil and beef drippings over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots start to soften, releasing their aroma and sweetness.
  5. Return the browned beef cubes to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in 500 ml of water, ensuring the beef is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
  6. Allow the beef to braise gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the liquid is simmering gently and not boiling vigorously. The beef is done when it is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, and the liquid has reduced to a flavorful broth.
  7. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if necessary. The broth should be savory and well-balanced, complementing the tender beef and vegetables.
  8. Serve the Indonesian Beef Pot 3 hot, accompanied by steamed rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy the communal and comforting flavors of this home-cooked dish.
Cover of Authentic Indonesian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Indonesian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Indonesian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Indonesian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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