Soto Daging Sapi: A Heartwarming Indonesian Beef Soup
Soto Daging Sapi is a comforting Indonesian beef soup renowned for its rich, flavorful broth and a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. This traditional dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Here’s how you can prepare this heartwarming soup at home:
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- 300 g beef (preferably brisket or shank)
- 2500 ml water
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 kaffir lime leaves
- 1 stalk lemongrass (lightly crushed)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder
- 1 stalk green onion, sliced thinly
For the Spice Paste:
- 5 shallots
- 4 garlic cloves
- 3 candlenuts
- 1 cm ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
For Serving:
- Bean sprouts, as needed
- Shredded cabbage, as needed
- Vermicelli noodles, as needed
- Boiled bird’s eye chilies, as needed
- Sliced green onions, as needed
- Chopped cilantro, as needed
- Fried shallots, as needed
- Sweet soy sauce, as needed
Instructions:
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Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the beef and cook until tender. This process may take around 1-2 hours, depending on the cut of beef used. Once the beef is tender, remove it from the pot and set it aside. When cool enough to handle, cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
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Make the Spice Paste:
- While the beef is cooking, prepare the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, ginger, ground coriander, and turmeric powder. Blend until you get a smooth paste.
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Cook the Spice Paste:
- In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until it releases a fragrant aroma and the color darkens slightly.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Add the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass to the spice paste. Stir briefly, then pour in the beef broth you previously set aside. Stir in the sugar, salt, and beef bouillon powder. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Prepare the Soup for Serving:
- In individual serving bowls, place a portion of cooked rice, shredded cabbage, vermicelli noodles, and bean sprouts. Add the pieces of beef to each bowl. Ladle the hot soup over the ingredients in each bowl.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Top each bowl with fried shallots, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Serve with boiled bird’s eye chilies and sweet soy sauce on the side. For an extra kick, feel free to add more bird’s eye chilies according to your taste.
Tips for a Perfect Soto Daging Sapi:
- Beef Cut: For a richer broth, use beef shank or brisket. These cuts have more connective tissue, which adds to the flavor and texture of the soup.
- Spice Paste: Make sure to blend the spice paste thoroughly to ensure a smooth and well-integrated flavor.
- Serving: Soto is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Customize your bowl with your favorite garnishes and condiments for a personalized touch.
Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic Soto Daging Sapi with your loved ones and savor the comforting warmth of this Indonesian classic!
