Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding potatoes during the last hour of cooking.
DINNER
Hearty Indonesian Beef and Potato Stew (Semur Daging Kentang)
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this traditional Indonesian beef and potato stew. Tender chunks of beef and soft potatoes are slow-simmered in a deeply aromatic sauce, boasting a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. It's a perfect centerpiece for a family meal, offering warmth and satisfying depth.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.
02
Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until seared on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside.
03
Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
04
Return the beef to the pot. Add the sweet soy sauce, chili paste, ground coriander, and ground cumin. Stir well to coat the beef and cook for 2 minutes.
05
Pour in the beef broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 60 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
06
Add the cubed potatoes, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to the pot. Stir gently, cover, and continue to simmer for another 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
07
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
About This Recipe
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this traditional Indonesian beef and potato stew. Tender chunks of beef and soft potatoes are slow-simmered in a deeply aromatic sauce, boasting a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. It's a perfect centerpiece for a family meal, offering warmth and satisfying depth.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra depth of flavor, you can marinate the beef in a tablespoon of sweet soy sauce and a pinch of coriander for at least 30 minutes before browning. If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
Easy Substitutions
Chicken or lamb can be used instead of beef. For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu or tempeh and vegetable broth. Adjust cooking times accordingly. Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. If you don't have kecap manis, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon soy sauce with 1 teaspoon brown sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly hot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Indonesian Spicy Beef and Potato Stew (Semur Daging Kentang) with steamed white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of fresh cucumber slices or a simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast. For an authentic touch, garnish with fried shallots.
Common Mistakes
1. Not browning the beef properly: This step is crucial for developing deep flavor. Ensure the pot is hot and don't overcrowd the pan. 2. Not simmering long enough: Beef stew meat needs time to become tender. Rushing this step will result in tough meat. 3. Overcooking the potatoes: Add potatoes later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy. 4. Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Always taste the stew before serving and add more salt, pepper, or chili paste as desired. 5. Using too much liquid: If your stew is too thin, simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kecap manis?
Kecap manis is a sweet Indonesian soy sauce, thicker and more syrupy than regular soy sauce, with a distinct caramelized flavor. It's a key ingredient in many Indonesian dishes.
Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
MORE TO KNOW
Semur is a classic Indonesian stew, often characterized by its dark color and rich, savory-sweet flavor profile, primarily from kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). While many versions are mild, this recipe incorporates chili paste for a pleasant kick. The slow simmering process is key to achieving tender beef and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Don't rush the cooking; patience will be rewarded with a deeply flavorful and comforting meal.
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