Beef Rendang

Directions

1. 1
   Toast the coriander seeds, fennel seeds and black peppercorns in a dry frying pan over low heat.
2. 2
   Once the fennel seeds start making popping sounds, transfer the toasted spices into a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder, and grind into a fine powder.
3. 3
   Set aside.
4. 4
   To make the spice paste, put all the ingredients into a food processor and process into a fine paste.
5. 5
   Heat the vegetable oil in large saucepan over mediumlow heat, add the spice paste and fry gently for 810 minutes until fragrant and darker red in color.
6. 6
   Add the beef, lemongrass, 3 whole kaffir lime leaves and ground spices, stirring to mix well.
7. 7
   Cook for about 3 minutes until the beef is lightly cooked, then add the coconut milk and water, stir to combine, then turn the heat down to a simmer.
8. 8
   Cook, uncovered, for 1 1/2 hours until the meat is tender and the sauce is thick.
9. 9
   Season with salt and sugar, to taste.
10. 10
    Meanwhile, heat a dry frying pan over low heat.
11. 11
    Add the desiccated coconut and toast until golden, stirring constantly so the coconut doesnt burn (take care it doesnt burn or it will have an unpleasant flavor).
12. 12
    Set aside to cool, then put in a food processor and pulse a few times until the coconut becomes fine crumbs.
13. 13
    Add the toasted coconut to the beef, stirring frequently over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the coconut releases its oil and is absorbed by the meat.
14. 14
    Garnish with the sliced kaffir lime leaf and serve with steamed rice.