East Timorese-style Beef in Oil

Ingredients

In this East Timorese adaptation, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of the region. The original Italian dish is typically prepared with olive oil, but in this recipe, we use a combination of coconut oil and palm oil, which are commonly used in East Timorese cuisine. Additionally, we enhance the flavors with traditional East Timorese spices such as turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal, giving the dish a distinct Southeast Asian twist. We alse have the original recipe for Manzo all'olio, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons palm oil 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon galangal powder 1 teaspoon galangal powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the beef, garlic, onion, ginger, lemongrass, turmeric powder, galangal powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat the coconut oil and palm oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. 4.
   Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
5. 5.
   Serve the East Timorese-style beef in oil over fragrant rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut oil — Make sure to use virgin coconut oil for its distinct flavor and aroma.
• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalk by lightly pounding it with a rolling pin to release its flavor.
• Galangal — If you can't find galangal powder, you can substitute it with ginger powder, although the flavor will be slightly different.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper to the marinade.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the pan during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• You can add vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick and delicious meal.
• Serve the dish with a side of East Timorese sambal for an extra kick of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the East Timorese-style Beef in Oil hot over a bed of fragrant rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the thinly sliced beef on top of the rice or noodles, allowing the vibrant colors of the spices to shine through. Drizzle some of the flavorful cooking oil over the dish for an appetizing sheen.