Soto Daging Sapi (Indonesian Beef Soup)
Soto Daging Sapi is a heartwarming Indonesian beef soup known for its rich, aromatic broth and an array of fresh vegetables. This delightful dish combines tender beef with a medley of crisp veggies and delicate bean sprouts, all served in a flavorful broth infused with traditional spices. Perfect for a cozy family meal or a special gathering, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Indonesia.
Ingredients:
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For the Soup:
- 1/2 kg beef (chuck or brisket works well)
- 1 small package rice vermicelli (bihun)
- 1/4 cabbage (or kol), shredded
- 1/8 kg mung bean sprouts (kecambah)
- 2 tomatoes, quartered
- Fresh cilantro and scallions, chopped
- Fried shallots (bawang goreng) for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
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For the Spice Paste:
- 10 shallots (bawang merah)
- 5 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
- 1 thumb-sized piece ginger
- 1 thumb-sized piece turmeric
- 2 candlenuts (kemiri)
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Additional Spices:
- 4 slices galangal (laos)
- 3 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
- 4 bay leaves (daun salam)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef:
- Rinse the beef under cold water and place it in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the beef is tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Remove the beef from the pot, let it cool slightly, then slice thinly against the grain.
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Prepare the Spice Paste:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and candlenuts. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water if necessary to make a paste.
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Cook the Spice Paste:
- Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.
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Make the Broth:
- Add the cooked spice paste to the pot with the beef broth. Stir in the galangal slices, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves. Season with salt and sugar to taste. Let the broth simmer to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become thoroughly tender.
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Cook the mung bean sprouts, carrots, and rice vermicelli until tender. Drain and set aside.
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Assemble the Soto:
- In individual serving bowls, arrange the rice vermicelli, shredded cabbage, mung bean sprouts, sliced carrots, scallions, cilantro, and tomatoes. Top with slices of beef and pour the hot broth over the ingredients.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fried shallots and serve with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze lime juice over the soup according to your taste preference.
This Soto Daging Sapi recipe offers a vibrant and aromatic soup that’s both comforting and satisfying. Each bowl is a harmonious blend of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, enhanced by the tangy freshness of lime. Enjoy this delicious Indonesian classic with your family and friends for a truly memorable meal.
