Soto Daging Sapi: A Hearty Indonesian Beef Soup
Soto Daging Sapi, a beloved Indonesian beef soup, is a culinary masterpiece characterized by its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This traditional dish features tender beef simmered in a savory broth, infused with aromatic spices and herbs. Whether served with steamed white rice, lontong (compressed rice cakes), or ketupat (rice cakes wrapped in woven palm leaves), Soto Daging Sapi promises a delightful and satisfying experience. Here’s how you can prepare this delectable soup in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 kg beef (boiled until tender, then cut into cubes)
- Beef broth (from the boiled beef)
Aromatics:
- 2 stalks of leek (chopped)
Spice Paste:
- 6 shallots
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1 candlenut
- 1/2 cm ginger
- Turmeric powder (to taste)
- Coriander powder (to taste)
- White pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Sugar (to taste)
Herbs and Spices:
- 3 bay leaves
- 4 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 stalks of lemongrass (bruised)
For Sautéing:
- Oil (for sautéing the spice paste)
Garnishes and Accompaniments:
- Warm white rice, lontong, or ketupat
- Corn soun (soaked briefly until softened, then drained)
- Shrimp crackers
- Sambal (chili sauce)
- Lime wedges
- Fried shallots
- Chopped celery
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beef Broth:
Begin by preparing the beef broth using the liquid from boiling the beef until tender. Once the beef is tender, cut it into cubes and set aside. Use the broth as the base for your soup. -
Blend the Spice Paste:
In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenut, and ginger. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the seasoning with turmeric powder, coriander powder, white pepper, salt, and sugar according to your taste preferences. -
Sauté the Spice Paste:
Heat a sufficient amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste. Add the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and bruised lemongrass. Continue to cook until the herbs become fragrant and the paste is well-cooked. -
Simmer the Soup:
Transfer the sautéed spice paste into the pot of beef broth. Stir to combine thoroughly. Add the chopped leek to the pot. Season with additional salt, sugar, and white pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the flavors meld together and the soup is heated through. -
Serve the Soto:
Ladle the hot Soto Daging Sapi into bowls. Serve with your choice of warm white rice, lontong, or ketupat. Accompany the soup with corn soun, shrimp crackers, sambal, lime wedges, fried shallots, and chopped celery on the side.
This Soto Daging Sapi recipe encapsulates the essence of Indonesian comfort food. Each bowl of this aromatic and flavorful soup is a celebration of rich culinary traditions. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with family and friends, and savor the delightful taste of Indonesian cuisine.
