Hearty Indonesian Beef Soup with Aromatic Spices

Ingredients

• 1/4 kg beef, cut into cubes
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 5 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced and crushed
• 1 stalk celery and scallions, chopped
• 1/2 stick cinnamon
• 3 cloves
• 1/4 nutmeg (ground nutmeg can be used as well)
• White pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Beef broth, to taste
• Sugar, to taste

Steps:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   Begin by cleaning the beef thoroughly and allowing it to drain. Use a non-stick pot to avoid the beef and broth from sticking and burning. Heat enough water in the pot for boiling the beef for about 5 minutes.

2. Cook the Beef:
   Once the water is heated, add the beef cubes one by one into the pot. To infuse the meat with a bit of spice and aroma, add some of the sliced shallots, crushed garlic, cloves, and nutmeg to the pot. This step will help reduce any unwanted odors and enhance the flavor of the beef. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface. Let the beef cook for 10-15 minutes, or until it begins to soften.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:
   While the beef is cooking, peel and cut the carrots and potatoes according to your preference. Rinse them thoroughly and soak them in salted water for about 1 minute.

4. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil and sauté the remaining shallots, garlic, tomato, cinnamon stick, celery, and scallions until fragrant. Once the aromatics are ready, add the sliced carrots and potatoes to the pan. Allow them to cook for about 30 seconds before pouring in some clean, boiled water (or bottled water). Simmer for approximately 5 minutes.

5. Combine and Season:
   Transfer the partially cooked beef and its broth into the pan with the vegetables. Strain the beef broth to remove any solids and add it to the pot. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

6. Simmer and Adjust:
   Let the soup simmer until all the ingredients are tender and well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Serve:
   Once the soup is ready and has reached the desired flavor, transfer it to a large bowl. Serve hot and enjoy with your family for a comforting weekend meal.

This hearty and flavorful beef soup, known as Sop Daging Sapi, is perfect for cozy weekend gatherings. Its combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices will make your family meal both satisfying and memorable.