Sup Daging Sapi (Indonesian Beef Soup)
Welcome to another delightful journey into the world of flavors with this comforting and hearty Indonesian Beef Soup, known as Sup Daging Sapi. This dish is a warm embrace on a cool evening, offering a symphony of tender beef and fresh vegetables, brought together by a medley of traditional spices. Perfect for a family gathering or a simple dinner at home, Sup Daging Sapi is both nutritious and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this Indonesian classic to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 100 grams beef, cut into chunks
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 stalk green onion, chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1/4 cabbage, chopped
- 1 tomato, quartered
- 1.5 liters water
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 candlenut (kemiri)
- Ground pepper, nutmeg, salt, sugar, and seasoning to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef:
- Begin by bringing 1.5 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the beef chunks and let them simmer until the beef is tender and cooked through. This process usually takes about an hour, depending on the cut and size of the beef chunks.
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Create the Spice Paste:
- While the beef is simmering, prepare the spice paste. In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the garlic cloves and candlenut until you achieve a smooth paste. Add a pinch of ground nutmeg for an aromatic touch.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to release the essential oils and flavors from the spices.
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Combine and Simmer:
- Once the beef is tender, add the sautéed spice paste to the pot. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
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Add the Vegetables:
- Begin by adding the harder vegetables first: carrots, potatoes, the white parts of the green onion, and celery stalk. Allow these vegetables to cook until they start to become tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Next, add the cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, and tomato. These vegetables cook more quickly, so they should be added towards the end of the cooking process. Simmer until all the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape, approximately another 5-7 minutes.
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Season to Taste:
- Season the soup with salt, sugar, ground pepper, and your choice of seasoning. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A little bit of sugar helps to balance the savory flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
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Serve:
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into serving bowls. Garnish with the chopped green parts of the green onion and a sprinkle of fried shallots for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Serve hot, accompanied by steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes:
- Candlenut Substitute: If you can’t find candlenut, you can use macadamia nuts as a substitute. They have a similar texture and flavor profile.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers according to your preference and seasonal availability.
- Spice Adjustments: For those who prefer a bit more heat, adding a sliced chili pepper to the spice paste can give the soup a gentle kick.
Sup Daging Sapi is a versatile dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its rich, flavorful broth and tender beef, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delicious Indonesian soup and let it bring a touch of exotic flavor to your everyday meals.
