Process shallots, garlic, ginger, chiles, coriander, turmeric, salt and 1/2 cup of water to a smooth sauce. Marinate beef for 1/2 hour. Heat the oil: add the beef and marinade, the salam, laos, lemon grass and lemon; stir-fry over moderate heat for 5 minutes. Add remaining water, cover and cook until beef is tender, about 1 hour. If the sauce evaporates too quickly, add another 1/2 cup water and continue to simmer. Serve warm. Serves six with rice and salad. San Francisco Chronicle, 3/9/88.