Aromatic Beef Trotter Soup with Fresh Vegetables

This traditional Indonesian spiced beef trotter soup, known locally as Sop Kaki Sapi Rempah, is a hearty and aromatic dish that combines tender beef trotters with a medley of vegetables and spices. The use of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables creates a rich, flavorful soup perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef trotters (pre-cut pieces, available from traditional markets)
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 stalk lemongrass (lightly crushed)
• 1 liter water

For the Vegetables:

• 4 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 medium potatoes (diced)
• 1 medium broccoli (cut into florets)
• 4 cabbage leaves (torn into pieces)
• 2 large tomatoes (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (finely chopped)
• 2 stalks green onions (finely chopped)

For the Spices:

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 piece cinnamon stick (about 3 cm) or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 beef bouillon cube (such as Maggi)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Trotters:

   • In a pressure cooker, combine the beef trotters, salt, sugar, garlic, bay leaves, and lemongrass. Add 1 liter of water.
   • Cook under pressure for 15 minutes. Once done, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally before opening the lid. (Be cautious when opening the pressure cooker.)

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • In a separate pot, bring 500 ml of water to a boil. Add the carrots and potatoes and cook until tender. Add the cabbage and broccoli towards the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking them.

3. Sauté the Spices:

   • Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and golden brown.

4. Combine and Simmer:

   • Add the cooked beef trotters and their broth to the pot with vegetables. Stir in the sautéed spices.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the beef bouillon cube, black pepper, ground nutmeg, and sugar. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.
   • Let the soup simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Finish the Soup:

   • Stir in the chopped celery and green onions. Turn off the heat and add the diced tomatoes.
   • Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this delicious and comforting Spiced Beef Trotter Soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or serving as a hearty meal for your family and friends.