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Nasi Gandul

About

A fragrant Javanese rice dish featuring tender beef simmered in a rich, spicy coconut milk gravy. The dish has a creamy texture with a balance of heat from chilies and warmth from spices like coriander and lemongrass. Traditionally served for lunch or special family gatherings.

Cultural Context

Originating from Pati, Central Java, Nasi Gandul is a celebratory dish often served at weddings or religious events. Its name ('gandul' meaning 'hanging') refers to the traditional way vendors carried pots of the dish balanced on bamboo poles.

Ingredients

500 gbeef (shank or brisket)(cut into chunks)
400 mlcoconut milk(thick)
300 grice(washed)
5 shallots(finely chopped)
3 clovesgarlic(minced)
3 red chilies(adjust to taste)
2 candlenuts(or macadamia as substitute)
1 stalklemongrass(bruised)
1 slicegalangal(thin)
2 bay leaves
1 tsptamarind paste(dissolved in water)
1 tbsppalm sugar(grated)
to taste salt

Method

1. Blend shallots, garlic, chilies, and candlenuts into a paste. 2. Brown beef, then add paste and aromatics (lemongrass, galangal). 3. Simmer with coconut milk and tamarind until ...

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Techniques Used

Regional Variations

East Java

Often uses more chilies for a spicier version

Modern interpretations

Sometimes includes hard-boiled eggs or fried shallots as garnish

Dietary

Gluten-FreeHalalcoconut

Sources

๐Ÿ“–

Sri Owen โ€” The Indonesian Kitchen

2015cookbook
๐Ÿ“–

William Wongso โ€” Flavors of Indonesia

2019cookbook
๐Ÿ“–

Indonesian Ministry of Tourism โ€” Authentic Recipes from Indonesia

2017institutionโ†— link

Research Evidence

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