Gulai Kambing
Indonesian Goat Curry
A rich and aromatic Indonesian goat curry, featuring tender goat meat simmered in a fragrant coconut milk broth infused with a complex blend of spices. This festive dish is a staple during celebrations.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Goat meat
- 600 ml Coconut milk
- 3 cm Fresh turmeric
- 3 cm Fresh galangal
- 4 Kaffir lime leaves
- 2 stalks Lemongrass
- 150 g Shallots
- 6 Garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp Coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp Cumin seeds
- 1 tsp Black peppercorns
- 3-5 Chilies
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the spice paste: In a food processor or blender, combine the chopped turmeric, galangal, shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, and chilies. Add a tablespoon of water or oil to help with blending. Process until a smooth paste forms. If using a mortar and pestle, toast the seeds briefly before pounding.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Sauté the spice paste: Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (approx. 180°C / 350°F). Add the spice paste and sauté, stirring frequently, until very fragrant and the color deepens, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the flavor. Add the bruised lemongrass stalks and torn kaffir lime leaves and sauté for another minute until aromatic.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Add the goat meat: Add the goat meat pieces to the pot and stir well to coat them evenly with the spice paste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 4
Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the coconut milk. Add salt to taste and the sugar. Stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it cook for at least 2 hours, or until the goat meat is very tender and falling apart. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
⏱️ 2 hours - 5
Reduce and finish: Once the meat is tender, uncover the pot and increase the heat slightly to medium-low. Continue to simmer, stirring more frequently, for another 20-30 minutes, or until the curry has thickened to your desired consistency and the oil has separated from the sauce, appearing as a shimmering layer on top. This oil separation is a sign of a well-cooked gulai.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 6
Adjust seasoning: Taste the gulai and adjust the salt and sugar as needed. Remove the lemongrass stalks and kaffir lime leaves before serving, if desired.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For best results, use goat meat with some fat and bone for maximum flavor.
- ✓The key to a great gulai is the long, slow simmering process which tenderizes the meat and melds the flavors.
- ✓The separation of oil on the surface indicates the curry is perfectly cooked and the spices have released their essential oils.
- ✓Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or lontong (rice cakes).
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a spicier version, add more chilies or a pinch of chili powder to the spice paste.
- Beef or lamb can be substituted for goat meat, though cooking times may vary.
- Add a tablespoon of tamarind paste for a slight tanginess.