1. Main Ingredients:
- Offal or assorted beef parts are used as the primary protein component in the stew. These may include beef liver, heart, lungs, kidneys, intestines, and tripe. Sometimes, the tongue and cheeks are also used.
- Beef meat, usually a combination of rib meat, shank meat, or brisket, is often added for extra depth and flavor.
2. Thick Sauce:
- Sua Ku Sua is characterized by its thick and flavorful sauce. The sauce combines various spices and herbs, creating a complex taste profile.
- The base of the sauce is usually made with a combination of beef broth, coconut milk, and spices. Coconut milk adds richness, while the spices provide a warm, aromatic flavor.
3. Rich Spices:
- Sua Ku Sua is renowned for its use of a diverse array of spices. Common spices include ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, galangal, lemongrass, candlenut, and ginger. These spices are either blended into a smooth paste or used whole in the cooking process.
4. Other Ingredients:
- In addition to the main ingredients and spices, Sua Ku Sua may also include vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and chilies.
- To enhance the flavor, ingredients like lime leaves, bay leaves, and keffir lime leaves are often added to the stew.
5. Cooking Technique:
- Sua Ku Sua is traditionally cooked in a clay pot or a wok over a charcoal stove. The extended cooking time allows the spices and herbs to fully infuse the meat and the sauce, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.
- The cooking method involves simmering the ingredients in the sauce until the meat becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
6. Serving Style:
- Sua Ku Sua is usually served with rice as a main course.
- It's commonly accompanied by chili sauce or sambal, crackers, and lime wedges to add extra flavors and textures to the dish.
Overall, Sua Ku Sua is a dish known for its distinct offal-based ingredients, thick and rich sauce, aromatic spices, and comforting flavors that showcase the culinary traditions of Indonesia.