1.Make spice paste. Blend or process ingredients into a paste.
2.Combine paste in wok with beef, coconut milk, the water, lemon grass and lime leaves; bring to the boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, about 2 hours or until mixture thickens and beef is tender.
Recipe can made a day ahead; store, covered, in the refrigerator this allows the flavours to develop overnight.