🇮🇩 Indonesia · Food
Semur Lidah (Javanese Braised Beef Tongue)
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇮🇩 IDA sophisticated Javanese classic featuring tender sliced beef tongue simmered in a rich, dark aromatic spiced soy reduction. It is a celebratory dish that balances savory depth with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Clean the beef tongue thoroughly and boil in a large pot with water until tender, about 60 minutes.
- 2
Peel the tough outer skin off the tongue while it is still warm and slice into 1cm thick pieces.
- 3
Grind the garlic, shallots, coriander, and candlenuts into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle.
- 4
Heat 3 tbsp oil in a heavy-bottomed wok over medium heat and sauté the spice paste until fragrant and darkened, about 3 minutes.
- 5
Add the sliced beef tongue into the wok and toss to coat evenly in the aromatic spice mixture.
- 6
Pour in the sweet soy sauce, tamarind water, and 200ml of water, stirring gently to combine.
- 7
Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes until the liquid reduces to a thick, glossy glaze.
- 8
Check seasoning and add salt to taste, ensuring the meat is tender enough to cut with a spoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute tongue?+
Yes, beef brisket or chuck roast are excellent alternatives if you prefer a standard meat texture.
What is the secret to the color?+
The authentic dark, rich color comes specifically from the high-quality Indonesian sweet soy sauce (kecap manis).
How do I know the tongue is ready?+
The skin should peel away easily like thin paper when you pull at a corner.
Can this be made in advance?+
Absolutely, the flavors deepen significantly after resting in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
