Authentic Acehnese Beef Rib Soup with Spices

Acehnese Beef Rib Soup (Sop Iga Sapi Khas Aceh)

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef ribs and knuckle bones
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut
• 1 head cauliflower, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut
• 2 stalks green onions, chopped
• A handful of fresh celery leaves
• 2 cardamom pods
• 3 cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Spice Paste:
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 10 shallots
  • ¼ inch ginger
  • 1½ tsp black peppercorns
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:

   • Wash the beef ribs and knuckle bones thoroughly. Rub them with salt, lime juice, and tamarind paste. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor and remove any strong odors.

2. Initial Boiling:

   • Place the marinated ribs and knuckle bones in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then discard the water and rinse the bones. This step helps to remove impurities and results in a clearer broth.

3. Cooking the Soup:

   • Return the cleaned bones to the pot, add fresh water, and bring to a boil again. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 35 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

4. Add Vegetables:

   • Add the chopped carrots, cauliflower, green onions, celery leaves, and potatoes to the pot. Continue cooking for approximately 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.

5. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • While the soup is cooking, heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cardamom pods, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until fragrant.
   • Blend the garlic, shallots, ginger, black peppercorns, and cumin seeds into a smooth paste. Add this paste to the pan and cook until it releases a rich aroma.

6. Combine and Season:

   • Transfer the spice paste into the pot with the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.

7. Serve:

   • Once the soup is ready and all ingredients are well-cooked, remove from heat. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of this traditional Acehnese beef rib soup.