Empal Gentong Recipe

Empal Gentong is a traditional Indonesian dish from Cirebon, West Java. This savory beef stew is cooked in a rich coconut milk-based broth, often flavored with aromatic spices. Traditionally cooked in a clay pot over a wood fire, it has a unique smoky flavor. Here's how to make this delicious dish at home.  

Ingredients:

- 500 grams beef (preferably brisket or flank)  

- 200 grams beef offal (optional)  

- 1 liter coconut milk  

- 2 lemongrass stalks (bruised)  

- 4 kaffir lime leaves  

- 2 bay leaves  

- 1 cinnamon stick  

- 3 tablespoons cooking oil  

- Salt and sugar to taste  

For the spice paste:

- 6 shallots  

- 4 garlic cloves  

- 3 candlenuts  

- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds  

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder  

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin  

- 1 teaspoon ginger paste  

- 1 teaspoon galangal paste  

- 2 red chilies (optional, for spiciness)  

Garnishes:

- Fried shallots  

- Chopped spring onions  

- Fresh lime wedges  

Serving Suggestions:

- Steamed rice or lontong (rice cakes)  

- Kerupuk (Indonesian crackers)  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   - Rinse the beef and offal thoroughly. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.  

   - Blend the spice paste ingredients into a smooth mixture using a blender or mortar and pestle.  

2. Cook the Beef:

   - Heat the oil in a large pot. Sauté the spice paste until fragrant, about 3–5 minutes.  

   - Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick. Stir well.  

3. Simmer the Stew:

   - Add the beef and offal to the pot. Stir until coated with the spices.  

   - Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1–2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.  

   - Season with salt and sugar to taste.  

4. Final Touches:

   - Once the beef is tender and the broth is rich and flavorful, turn off the heat.  

   - Serve the Empal Gentong in individual bowls, garnished with fried shallots and spring onions.  

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   - Enjoy Empal Gentong with steamed rice or lontong, accompanied by kerupuk and lime wedges.  

Tips:

- If you don’t have a clay pot, a regular pot works fine.  

- Adjust the spiciness to your preference by adding more or fewer chilies.  

- For an authentic smoky flavor, try cooking over a charcoal stove.  

This comforting dish is perfect for family meals or special occasions, offering a taste of Indonesian heritage in every spoonful. Enjoy!