Daging Masak Kunyit (Bruneian Turmeric Beef)
A hearty and aromatic Bruneian beef stew, Daging Masak Kunyit features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked with potatoes in a vibrant turmeric-infused sauce. Enhanced with the fragrance of lemongrass, garlic, and onion, this dish is a comforting staple.
🧂 Ingredients
- 750 g Beef(stewing beef, cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp Turmeric powder
- 2 stalks Lemongrass stalks(bruised and roughly chopped)
- 6 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(peeled and grated)
- 2 small Red chilies(seeded and sliced (optional, for heat))
- 200 ml Coconut milk
- 500 ml Water or beef broth
- to taste Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with turmeric powder, salt, and a little oil to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- 2
Heat the remaining vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- 3
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped lemongrass, and sliced red chilies (if using). Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- 5
Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the water or beef broth, ensuring the beef is mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer.
- 6
After 1 hour, add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, until the beef is very tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- 7
Stir in the coconut milk, salt, and sugar. Simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes, uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice.
💡 Tip: Ensure the beef is tender before adding the potatoes to prevent them from becoming mushy.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the beef for longer, up to a few hours or overnight.
- ✓If you can find fresh turmeric, use it for a more vibrant color and authentic flavor. Grate about a 2-inch piece.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chilies to control the spice level.
- ✓Don't boil vigorously after adding coconut milk, as it can curdle.
🔄 Variations
- Add sliced carrots along with the potatoes.
- A splash of lime juice at the end can brighten the flavors.