Spicy Beef Jerky with a Kiwi Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we substitute the traditional beef used in Dendeng Balado with beef jerky, which adds a unique texture and intensifies the flavors. Additionally, we incorporate New Zealand influences by infusing the sauce with local ingredients, such as kiwifruit or horopito, to create a delightful fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Dendeng balado, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef jerky 500g (1.1 lb) beef jerky
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 red chilies, thinly sliced 2 red chilies, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 kiwifruit, peeled and mashed (optional, for New Zealand twist) 1 kiwifruit, peeled and mashed (optional, for New Zealand twist)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Soak the beef jerky in warm water for 10 minutes to soften it slightly. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced red chilies. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and mashed kiwifruit (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Add the beef jerky to the pan and mix it with the sauce until well coated. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef jerky is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
5. 5.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. 7.
   Serve the Fiery Beef Delight hot with steamed rice or mashed potatoes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef jerky — Soaking the beef jerky in warm water helps to soften it slightly, making it easier to cook and enhancing its texture.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a milder version, remove the seeds from the red chilies before slicing them.
• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the beef jerky in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Experiment with different levels of spiciness by adjusting the amount of red chilies or adding a dash of hot sauce.
• If you can't find beef jerky, you can use thinly sliced beef and cook it until tender.

Serving advice

Garnish the Fiery Beef Delight with fresh cilantro leaves or sliced spring onions for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the heat.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Fiery Beef Delight on a platter, drizzle some extra sauce on top, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an appealing presentation. Serve it with steamed rice or mashed potatoes on the side.