Recipe Tongseng

Tongseng is a traditional Indonesian stew known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Originating from Central Java, this dish has gained popularity throughout Indonesia and beyond for its delicious taste and hearty ingredients. Typically made with tender meat, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, tongseng is a comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will explore how to make tonging from scratch, including the required ingredients, preparation, serving suggestions, tips, variations, and nutritional information.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams of beef, chicken, or lamb, thinly sliced
• 200 grams of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 150 grams of carrots, thinly sliced
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 tablespoons of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1 tablespoon of tamarind paste, dissolved in 100 ml of water
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fried shallots for garnish
• Chopped spring onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped shallots, and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add thinly sliced meat to the pot, and stir-fry until it changes color and is slightly browned.
3. Pour in the tamarind water, sweet soy sauce, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, thinly sliced carrots, and cabbage to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate all ingredients.
5. Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Once done, remove from heat and discard the lemongrass stalks.
7. Transfer the tongseng to a serving bowl and garnish with fried shallots and chopped spring onions.

Tips:

• For richer flavor, you can marinate the meat with a mixture of sweet soy sauce, garlic, and shallots for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding bird's eye chili or chili flakes according to your preference.
• Tongseng is traditionally served with steamed rice or lontong (compressed rice cakes). You can also enjoy it with warm crusty bread or noodles.

Variations:

• Seafood Tongseng: Substitute the meat with prawns, squid, or fish fillets for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Tongseng: Replace the meat with tofu, tempeh, or assorted mushrooms for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Tongseng: Increase the amount of chili or add a dollop of sambal (Indonesian chili paste) for an extra kick.

Nutritional Information:

The calorie content of tongseng can vary depending on the type and amount of meat used, as well as any additional ingredients. On average, a serving of tongseng contains approximately 250-300 calories per serving.

Conclusion:

Tongseng is a beloved Indonesian dish that combines tender meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a comforting and flavorful stew. With this simple recipe, you can recreate the authentic taste of tongseng in your own kitchen. Whether you prefer it with beef, chicken, or lamb, tongseng is sure to delight your taste buds with its deliciousness. Experiment with different variations and enjoy this Indonesian culinary gem with your family and friends!