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Beef Rendang Recipe (Indonesian Beef Stew)

Indulge in Authentic Beef Rendang Recipe: Spicy & Comforting Stew

This Beef Rendang Recipe (Indonesian Beef Stew) is a rich and aromatic dish that delivers warmth and comfort with every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Indonesian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Rendang Paste
  • 6 pieces Shallots Adds a sweet and aromatic base flavor.
  • 5 pieces Thai peppers Provides heat; can substitute with milder chilies for less spice.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Offers depth; use fresh chopped for best flavor.
  • 1 inch Ginger Adds warmth and spice; fresh recommended.
  • 1 inch Galangal Imparts distinct flavor; can substitute with more ginger.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Contributes color and earthiness; fresh is best.
  • 1 teaspoon Black peppercorns Enhances overall spiciness.
For the Stew
  • 2 pounds Beef (boneless chuck or short ribs) Cuts should be well-marbled.
  • 1 can Coconut milk Use thick coconut milk for richness.
  • 4 leaves Makrut lime leaves Adds citrusy fragrance; bay leaves are a good alternative.
  • 2 stalks Lemongrass Must be smashed to release oils.
  • 1 stick Cinnamon stick Offers warmth and sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Palm sugar Sweetens and balances heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances all other flavors.
For Garnish
  • 4 pieces Fresh lime leaves or herbs Adds freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Spicy chili flakes For an extra kick of heat.
  • 1 cup Crispy fried shallots Brings texture and flavor balance.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by blending shallots, Thai peppers, garlic, ginger, galangal, turmeric, and black peppercorns in a food processor until a thick, smooth paste is formed.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the prepared rendang paste and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Cut the beef into 2-inch chunks and add to the pot, stirring to coat with the rendang paste. Cook for about 1 minute until slightly browned.
  4. Pour in 1 can of coconut milk and add the makrut lime leaves, smashed lemongrass, and a cinnamon stick. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  6. Continue to simmer for an additional 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the beef is tender.
  7. Remove from heat and discard large spices like cinnamon stick and lemongrass. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the Beef Rendang before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This Beef Rendang Recipe is perfect for meal prep and freezes well for future meals.

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