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Rendang

Rendang

Indonesian slow-cooked beef curry in rich coconut and spice paste. Dry, complex, and incredible.

25
Prep (min)
180
Cook (min)
205
Total (min)
4
Servings
Health Score75/100

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs Beef chuck
  • 2 cans Coconut milk
  • 1 can Coconut cream
  • 4 tbsp Rendang paste
  • 3 stalks Lemongrass
  • 2 inches Galangal
  • 6 pieces Kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 medium Onion
  • 8 cloves Garlic
  • 3 inches Ginger
  • 1 tbsp Turmeric
  • 2 tbsp Palm sugar

Instructions

  1. 1

    Fry rendang paste in coconut cream until oil separates

    💡 10 minutes

  2. 2

    Cut beef into 2-inch cubes, removing excess fat. Season with salt and turmeric. Set aside while preparing the spice paste.

    💡 Cutting against the grain ensures tender bites - each piece should have some fat for moisture.

  3. 3

    Add coconut milk lemongrass galangal lime leaves

    💡 Bring to simmer

  4. 4

    Cook on low 2-3 hours stirring occasionally

    💡 Low heat tender

  5. 5

    Add turmeric palm sugar

    💡 Work methodically. Attention to detail separates home cooking from restaurant quality.

  6. 6

    Continue cooking on low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce has reduced to a thick, dark paste that coats the beef beautifully.

    💡 The dark color indicates proper caramelization - this is rendang, not curry. Patience is key.

  7. 7

    Season to taste Cook low and slow until sauce thickens and meat is tender.

    💡 Taste at every stage. Seasoning develops as food cooks.

  8. 8

    Serve immediately while hot, garnished with fresh herbs or appropriate accompaniments as desired.

    💡 Fresh herbs add brightness and visual appeal - presentation matters as much as flavor.