Semur Indonesian
A savory Indonesian beef stew with tender steak and aromatic spices, perfect for comforting meals and pairs well with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut round steak into 1/2 inch squares.
- Heat oil in skillet over medium heat; sauté the round steak until browned.
- Add sliced onion, garlic powder, sugar, and pepper to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring until onion is golden.
- Add water and soy sauce, then simmer, covered, for one hour.
- Serve over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the round steak in soy sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you don’t have garlic powder, fresh minced garlic can be used instead. Adjust the sugar to taste; you can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness. If you're looking for vegan recipes, try using tofu or tempeh in place of the steak.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Semur over steamed rice for a classic pairing, or try it with noodles for a different texture. It also goes well with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness. For a unique twist, consider pairing it with Aunt Sue's Strawberry Fig Surprise for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Semur Indonesian contains roughly 139 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1736mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
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 cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as chuck or brisket. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time, as tougher cuts may need longer to become tender. Always cut the meat into small pieces to help it cook evenly.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute the round steak with firm tofu or tempeh, marinated in soy sauce. This will give a similar texture and absorb the flavors well. Just sauté until golden before adding the onions and spices.
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Using a good quality dark soy sauce will enhance the flavor of the dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. Both options will work well with the other ingredients.
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).