Sambal Balado (Indonesian Crispy Crunchy Beef)

Ingredients

• •2 pounds beef round steak or boneless chuck
• •2 cups water
• •7 tablespoons peanut or corn oil
• •1 cup thinly sliced onions
• •10 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced thin
• •3 tablespoons red hot 'Sambal Oelek' chili paste (available at Oriental markets) or use hot chili sauce
• •Salt to taste
• •1 cup cubed ripe tomatoes

Directions

1. 1Place beef in water in a 4-quart pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Discard water and cool beef until it can be handled. Slice beef as thin as possible, then cut into 2-inch squares. Let drain in a colander for about 10 minute before drying with paper towels.
2. 2Heat 4 tablespoons oil in a 12-inch skillet set over medium-high heat. Add beef slices and fry for 5 minutes, or until beef is brown and dry. Remove and set aside.
3. 3Heat remaining 3 tablespoons oil in same skillet. Fry onions and garlic for 3 minutes. Add chili paste, salt and tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes more. Add beef and stir-fry for 5 minutes to coat slices and distribute flavors.
4. 4Serve immediately with rice (to reduce spiciness) and a cucumber/vinegar salad.