Indonesian Beef Bone Soup with Savory Spices

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef bones or beef shanks
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into pieces
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into pieces
• 1 stalk of green onions, chopped
• Fresh celery leaves, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Granulated sugar, to taste
• Fried shallots, for garnish
• Soup spices: cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other preferred spices

Steps:

1. Cook the Beef Bones:
   Begin by simmering the beef bones in a large pot with enough water to cover them. Cook for about 90 minutes, or until the bones are tender and the meat starts to fall off the bone.

2. Prepare the Garlic and Pepper:
   While the bones are cooking, grind the garlic cloves and black pepper together into a fine paste.

3. Add Vegetables:
   Once the beef bones are tender, add the chopped carrots and potatoes to the pot. If needed, add extra water to ensure all ingredients are covered. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender.

4. Season the Soup:
   Incorporate the soup spices, including cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and any other spices you prefer. Adjust the seasoning with salt and granulated sugar to taste.

5. Sauté Garlic and Pepper:
   In a separate pan, sauté the garlic and pepper paste until fragrant and lightly golden. Add this aromatic mixture to the soup pot.

6. Finish the Soup:
   Stir in the chopped green onions and celery leaves. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fried shallots on top. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional Indonesian beef bone soup.

This comforting and aromatic dish, rich with tender beef and flavorful vegetables, is perfect for warming up on a cool day or for sharing with family and friends.