Recipe Aceh Noodles

Indonesia, known for its diverse culinary landscape, boasts a myriad of flavors and dishes. Among them, Aceh Noodles stand out as a symbol of the rich culinary heritage of the Aceh province. This dish, characterized by its robust spices and aromatic broth, offers a tantalizing experience for food enthusiasts. Let’s delve into the recipe, preparation, serving suggestions, tips, variations, and nutritional insights of this delectable Indonesian delicacy.

Ingredients:

• 300g dried yellow noodles
• 200g beef, thinly sliced
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• Sambal, lime wedges, fried shallots, and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the dried yellow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic, turmeric, coriander, and cumin into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned.

4. Create the Broth: Pour in the beef or chicken broth and water. Add the tamarind paste, sweet soy sauce, salt, sugar, and bruised lemongrass. Simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Assemble the Dish: Place a portion of cooked noodles into serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and beef over the noodles.

6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Aceh Noodles with sambal, lime wedges, fried shallots, and chopped green onions according to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less sambal according to your preference.
• To enhance the flavor, toast the ground spices before blending them into a paste.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a refreshing acidity to the dish.

Variations:

• Seafood Aceh Noodles: Replace beef with shrimp, squid, or a combination of seafood.
• Creamy Aceh Noodles: Stir in coconut milk to the broth for a creamy texture.
• Spicy Aceh Noodles: Increase the amount of chili peppers or sambal for an extra kick.

Nutritional Insights:

The nutritional content of Aceh Noodles may vary based on ingredients and serving size. Generally, it provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. However, it's advisable to consume in moderation due to its sodium content from broth and soy sauce.

Conclusion:

Aceh Noodles exemplify the vibrant culinary tapestry of Indonesia, showcasing a harmonious blend of spices, flavors, and textures. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or as a culinary adventure for the palate, this dish invites food lovers to savor the essence of Indonesian cuisine. With its versatility and rich heritage, Aceh Noodles continues to captivate taste buds around the world, offering a delightful journey through Indonesian gastronomy.