Beef Rendang

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Indonesian

Beef Rendang is a rich Indonesian-style curry with bold chili, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, perfect for hearty meals and flavor enthusiasts. Suitable for family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 20 dried chilies
  • 3 large onions
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 5 stalks lemon grass
  • 2 tsp. turmeric powder
  • 1 thumb size piece ginger
  • 2 c. coconut milk
  • salt to taste
  • sugar to taste
  • 1 lb. beef, cut into cubes

Instructions

  1. Add the beef cubes to the pan and continue to fry on lower heat.
  2. Add coconut milk, salt, and sugar.
  3. Simmer, stirring constantly, until the meat is tender.
  4. If the meat needs more time to cook and the gravy dries out, add a little water.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight in a mixture of coconut milk, turmeric, and spices. If dried chilies are hard to find, you can substitute with fresh red chilies or chili powder to taste. Adjust the spice level according to your preference; adding more chilies will increase heat. For a quicker option, pre-packaged rendang paste can be used, just follow the instructions on the label.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Beef Rendang with steamed rice or coconut rice for a delightful pairing. You can also accompany it with pickled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a more substantial meal, consider adding Dwain'S Rice or serving alongside a vegetable stir-fry for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Beef Rendang can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it appears too thick. This dish also freezes well; simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Beef Rendang contains roughly 966 calories, with 16g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), potassium (86% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2280mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).

966 kcal 48% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.5g 33% DV
Total Fat 26.6g 34% DV
Carbs 187g 68% DV
Fiber 6.6g 24% DV
Sugar 7g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2279.9mg 99% DV
Potassium 4019.3mg 86% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.1mcg
Vitamin C 43mg 48% DV
Calcium 389mg 30% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, while beef is traditional, you can also use chicken or lamb. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster than beef. If using lamb, choose a tender cut and simmer until it reaches your desired tenderness.

How spicy is Beef Rendang?

The spiciness of Beef Rendang can vary greatly depending on the type and amount of dried chilies used. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds before blending. Taste as you cook and adjust the spice level to your liking.

Can I make Beef Rendang ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, Beef Rendang often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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