By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world
3 matchesDishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Iga Bakar. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Kufteh Rizah (Mini Meatballs)In Iran · same ingredients50%
Daging Gulai KawahIn Malaysia · same ingredients50%
Chicken KapitanIn Malaysia · same ingredients50%
Succulent, grilled beef ribs marinated in a rich, traditional Indonesian spice blend. They are tender enough to fall off the bone and feature a smoky, caramelized exterior.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Iga Bakar from another cuisine is Kufteh Rizah (Iran): the two share 50% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Blend the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric and coriander seeds with the vegetable oil into a smooth spice paste.
- 2
Place the beef ribs in a large pot and add 1.2 litres of water, so the ribs are fully submerged.
- 3
Add the spice paste and 1 tsp salt to the pot. Simmer over medium heat for 90 minutes, until the ribs are tender and the meat begins to pull away from the bone.
- 4
Remove the ribs from the pot. Boil the remaining liquid over high heat until it reduces to a thick sauce of 250 ml. Stir in the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and keep this glaze for basting.
- 5
Prepare your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat.
- 6
Brush the ribs generously with the reduced spice sauce.
- 7
Grill the ribs for 3-5 minutes on each side until charred and caramelized, basting frequently with the sauce to keep them moist.
- 8
Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of chili sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Iga Bakar?
Iga Bakar is an Indonesian dish of beef ribs simmered in a spice paste of garlic, shallots, candlenut, turmeric and coriander. The ribs are then grilled with a glaze of the reduced sauce and kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). It is typically served as a main course for lunch or dinner, often with steamed rice and chili sauce (sambal).
Can I use pork ribs?
Yes, although it's not the traditional Indonesian method, the spice rub works beautifully on pork.
What if I can't find candlenuts?
Macadamia nuts are the closest substitute for the creamy texture candlenuts provide.
How do I know they are tender?
The meat should begin to pull away from the rib bone easily when pierced with a fork.
Can I bake them?
Yes, roast them in a 200°C oven for 15-20 minutes after boiling, brushing with sauce every 5 minutes.