Authentic Soto Sapi Bandung: Traditional Indonesian Beef Soup

Soto Sapi Bandung Recipe

Experience the rich flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine with this comforting Soto Sapi Bandung, a delicious beef soup that embodies the essence of Bandung’s culinary heritage. This hearty soup combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these steps to prepare a bowl of Soto Sapi Bandung that will warm both your body and soul.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 400 grams beef (preferably brisket)
• 1 medium daikon radish

For the Spice Paste:

• 5 shallots
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• A pinch of black pepper

Additional Seasonings:

• 1 stalk lemongrass
• 4-5 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 segments ginger
• Salt, sugar, pepper to taste
• 1.5 tablespoons sweet soy sauce

For Garnishing:

• Cooked rice
• Tomato slices
• Lime/lemon slices
• Cucumber slices
• Sliced green onions and cilantro
• Fried shallots

For the Simple Chili Sauce:

• 3 shallots
• 4 red chilies (bird’s eye chilies for extra heat)
• 1 garlic clove
• A pinch of salt, sugar, and oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces to ensure quicker cooking. Rinse the beef under cold water, then place it in a pot. Boil for about 20-30 minutes to remove impurities and excess fat. You’ll notice the water becoming cloudy. Discard this water, rinse the beef again, and clean the pot to remove any remaining fat.

2. Cook the Beef:

   • Return the cleaned beef to the pot and add approximately 2-2.5 liters of fresh water. Simmer until the beef is tender and fully cooked.

3. Prepare the Daikon:

   • Peel and slice the daikon radish thinly while the beef is cooking.

4. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend or grind the shallots, garlic, salt, sugar, and black pepper into a coarse paste. Heat some oil in a pan and sauté the spice paste until fragrant. Add the bruised lemongrass, ginger segments, and kaffir lime leaves to the pan. Continue to sauté for 1-2 minutes.

5. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add the sautéed spice paste to the pot with the beef. Stir well to combine. Season with additional salt, sugar, pepper, and sweet soy sauce. When the beef is tender, add the sliced daikon radish and cook until the radish is tender but not overcooked.

6. Prepare the Chili Sauce:

   • Blend the shallots, red chilies, and garlic with a pinch of salt, sugar, and a bit of oil until smooth.

7. Prepare Garnishes:

   • Slice the cucumber, tomato, lime/lemon, and chop the green onions and cilantro. Fry some shallots for a crunchy topping.

8. Serve:

   • Ladle the hot Soto Sapi Bandung into bowls. Serve with cooked rice and garnish with fresh vegetables, lime/lemon slices, and fried shallots. Offer the chili sauce on the side for those who like a bit of extra heat.

Enjoy your Soto Sapi Bandung with a generous sprinkle of fried shallots and a squeeze of lime for an added burst of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed rice and fresh garnishes, making for a truly satisfying meal.