Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs (1.36 kg) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil
  • 10 shallots, peeled (about 300g or 10.5 oz)
  • 8 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 3-inch piece of ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
  • 3-inch piece of galangal, peeled and roughly chopped
  • 2-inch piece of fresh turmeric, peeled and roughly chopped
  • 6-8 red chilies, roughly chopped
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, trimmed and roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds, toasted lightly
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds, toasted lightly
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 4 cups (950 ml) full-fat coconut milk, divided
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves, bruised
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tbsp tamarind paste mixed with 2 tbsp hot water
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Combine all spice paste ingredients in a food processor or blender. Process until a smooth paste forms. Add a splash of water if needed to help it blend.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
  3. Add the spice paste to the Dutch oven and sauté over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly darkened (about 8-10 minutes).
  4. Return the beef to the Dutch oven. Add 3 cups of coconut milk, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
  5. Remove the lid, stir in tamarind paste mixture, brown sugar, and salt. Continue to simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for another 1-2 hours, or until the sauce has thickened and caramelized, and the beef is coated in a rich, dark sauce. Add the remaining 1 cup of coconut milk, and cook until it thickens. The rendang is ready when the oil separates from the sauce and the mixture is very dry.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick before serving. Enjoy this rich beef rendang!