Indonesian Sop Daging Sapi Beef Soup Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, your ultimate culinary resource for authentic and flavorful dishes from around the world. Today, we delve into the rich, aromatic depths of Indonesian cuisine with a dish that embodies comfort and tradition—Sop Daging Sapi, or Indonesian Beef Soup. This hearty, soul-warming soup is a celebration of tender beef chunks simmered to perfection with a medley of vegetables, fragrant spices, and citrusy notes that elevate its flavor profile. Whether you’re preparing a family feast, a special occasion, or simply craving a nourishing bowl of goodness, Sop Daging Sapi is an excellent choice that delivers depth, warmth, and a touch of exotic flair. Crafted with care and authentic ingredients, this recipe offers a warm embrace with every spoonful, transporting your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Indonesia. The harmonious blend of spices and fresh herbs makes this dish not only satisfying but also packed with health benefits, making it a well-rounded addition to your culinary repertoire.

Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed stockpot or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small sauté pan
• Slotted spoon
• Ladle
• Fine grater or microplane (for ginger, optional)
• Serving bowls
• Frying pan (for crispy shallots, optional)

Tags

• Indonesian Cuisine
• Beef Soup
• Comfort Food
• Hearty
• Traditional
• Family-Friendly

Serving Size

Serves approximately 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes and accompaniments.

Difficulty Level

Moderate—this recipe involves multiple steps, including marinating, simmering, sautéing, and seasoning, but is manageable for home cooks with basic culinary skills.

Allergen Information

This dish contains beef and may include cross-contact with gluten or other allergens depending on additional ingredients or seasonings used. Always verify ingredient labels if cooking for allergy-sensitive individuals.

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: Yes, provided no wheat-based seasonings are added.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Suitable if you omit potatoes or substitute with low-carb vegetables.
• Paleo-Friendly: Yes, if using natural spices and avoiding processed ingredients.

Course

Main Course / Soup

Cuisine

Indonesian

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparing the Beef

Begin by selecting high-quality beef suitable for slow cooking and tenderizing. Rinse the beef cubes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any residual blood or impurities. Proper rinsing ensures a cleaner flavor profile and prevents any unwanted off-tastes during cooking.

Next, take a fresh kaffir lime and cut it in half. Squeeze the juice of one half over the beef cubes, ensuring an even distribution. The citrusy acidity helps tenderize the meat and imparts a subtle fragrance. Let the beef sit in this lime juice for approximately 10 minutes to allow the acid to penetrate the meat fibers. After this brief marination, rinse the beef again with cold water to remove excess lime juice, which can otherwise overpower the delicate flavors of the soup.

2. Seasoning and Marination

In a small bowl, combine a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture over the beef cubes, making sure every piece is evenly coated. For enhanced flavor, you can also incorporate a pinch of turmeric or coriander powder if desired, but traditional Indonesian recipes emphasize simplicity and fresh spices.

Mix the seasoned beef thoroughly, ensuring the salt and pepper are well distributed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow the beef to marinate at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. This step helps the salt penetrate the meat, enhancing flavor and tenderness, and allows the spices to infuse deeply.

3. Cooking the Beef

Fill a large stockpot with water—about 3 to 4 liters—to accommodate the beef and vegetables comfortably. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, which acts as a base seasoning and helps in tenderizing the beef during cooking. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Once boiling, carefully add the beef cubes to the pot. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for approximately 35 minutes. During this period, foam and scum may rise to the surface; skim these off periodically with a slotted spoon to keep the broth clear and clean-tasting. Use a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil to prevent the meat from becoming tough and to ensure a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Test the beef for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into a piece—if it slides in easily, the beef is tender and ready for the next step.

4. Adding Vegetables

Once the beef is tender, add the diced potatoes and carrots directly into the broth. Stir gently to distribute the vegetables evenly and continue cooking until they are just tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. The vegetables should be soft yet retain their shape to contribute to the overall texture of the soup.

Ensure the broth remains at a gentle simmer during this process to prevent the vegetables from disintegrating and to preserve their vibrant colors and natural flavors.

5. Sautéing Aromatics

While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the aromatic base for the soup. Heat a small amount of oil (such as vegetable or coconut oil) in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and minced garlic. Sauté, stirring constantly, until they turn golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This caramelization releases essential oils and deepens the flavor profile characteristic of Indonesian cuisine.

Once sautéed, transfer the aromatic mixture into the main pot with the beef and vegetables, stirring well to combine. This layering of flavors is key to achieving a rich, aromatic broth.

6. Spicing and Flavor Adjustment

Add the ground nutmeg, whole cloves, and the whole cardamom pod to the pot. These spices provide depth and warmth, characteristic of Indonesian spice blends. Stir gently to distribute evenly. Allow the spices to simmer with the broth for an additional 10-15 minutes, releasing their essential oils and infusing the soup with complex aromas.

Alongside, taste the broth and adjust seasonings as necessary. Add more salt or black pepper according to your preference. For a touch of sweetness that balances the spices, stir in a teaspoon of sugar, which also enhances the overall flavor harmony.

Remove the whole cloves and cardamom pod before serving to avoid biting into whole spices, unless they are intended for presentation or flavoring during cooking.

7. Final Touches and Greens

Once the seasoning is to your liking, stir in the chopped celery and thinly sliced spring onions. These fresh herbs add brightness and a slight crunch that complements the tender beef and soft vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes just to wilt the greens slightly, preserving their vibrant color and fresh flavor.

For an authentic Indonesian touch, consider garnishing with crispy fried shallots. To prepare, thinly slice additional shallots and fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle over the soup just before serving.

Serving

Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls, ensuring each serving contains a generous amount of beef, vegetables, and broth. Garnish with spring onions and crispy shallots for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the full aromatic experience of Sop Daging Sapi.

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, crusty bread, or Indonesian-style rice cakes (lontong). For an extra kick, serve alongside sambal or chili sauce.

Preparation Tips

• Use high-quality beef with some marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate the beef with lime juice and seasoning to enhance its tenderness and flavor.
• Skim off foam during boiling to keep the broth clear and clean-tasting.
• Adjust spice levels according to personal preference, adding more or less of each spice.
• Prepare crispy shallots in advance for quick garnishing during serving.
• Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to maintain tenderness and flavor integrity.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Choosing the Beef: Opt for cuts with connective tissue like shank or chuck for maximum tenderness after slow cooking.
• Flavor Boost: Adding a splash of Indonesian sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) can add sweetness and depth, but use sparingly to maintain authenticity.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to incorporate additional spices such as turmeric, cinnamon, or coriander to customize the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Alternatives: You can substitute potatoes and carrots with other root vegetables like parsnips or daikon for variation.
• Serving Temperature: Serve the soup hot, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to preserve flavors.

Add-ons

• Extra chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for garnishing
• Boiled eggs for added protein
• Spicy chili paste or chopped fresh chili for heat
• Additional vegetables such as bok choy, green beans, or daikon

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice or fragrant rice varieties
• Indonesian rice cakes (lontong) or ketupat
• Simple vegetable stir-fry or sautéed greens
• Indonesian satay skewers or grilled meats
• Fresh tropical fruits for dessert

Improvements

• Use homemade beef broth for a richer, more nuanced flavor profile.
• Slow cook the beef in a crockpot for enhanced tenderness and flavor development.
• Experiment with adding coconut milk for a creamy variation, blending Indonesian curry influences.
• Incorporate a splash of lime juice just before serving to enhance brightness and flavor complexity.

Save and Store

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to preserve the flavors and prevent the broth from separating.

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Traditionally, Sop Daging Sapi is made with beef, but you can substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, tempeh, or tofu along with vegetable broth. Incorporate the spices and aromatics to maintain flavor depth.

Can I use different cuts of beef?

Yes, cuts like brisket or short ribs can also be used, but longer cooking times may be necessary for tougher cuts. For tender results, shank or chuck is preferred.

What if I can’t find kaffir lime?

Replace with lime zest and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. While it won’t replicate the exact aroma, it provides a similar citrusy note that enhances the broth.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mildly seasoned; adjust spices according to taste. To make it spicier, add chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili oil at the end.

Conclusion

Sop Daging Sapi exemplifies Indonesian culinary artistry—simple ingredients elevated through aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and careful preparation. Its comforting warmth makes it perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or special gatherings. By following this detailed recipe, you can recreate the authentic flavors of Indonesia in your own kitchen, impressing family and friends with a dish that is both satisfying and culturally rich. Remember, the key to a perfect Sop Daging Sapi lies in patience—allow the flavors to meld, the beef to tenderize, and the spices to infuse every drop of broth. Enjoy this culinary journey and bring a taste of Indonesia into your home with Love With Recipes!

References

1. Indonesian Food & Cooking by Sri Owen, 2002.

2. The Food of Indonesia by Heinz von Holzen, 2010.