Soto Sapi Kuah Bening: Indonesian Clear Beef Soup
Soto sapi kuah bening, a cherished Indonesian dish, is renowned for its clear, flavorful broth and tender beef. This comforting soup is enhanced with fresh vegetables and garnished with vibrant condiments, creating a rich, satisfying meal. Here’s a detailed recipe to bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 500 grams beef (including some bone-in pieces for added flavor)
- For Garnishes:
- Bean thread noodles (soun)
- Bean sprouts (tauge)
- Cabbage (kol)
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Tomatoes
- Chopped scallions and celery leaves
- Lime wedges
For the Spice Paste:
- 7 shallots
- 5 garlic cloves
- 3 candlenuts (kemiri)
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 1-inch piece of turmeric (preferably toasted)
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 stalk lemongrass (smashed)
- 1-inch piece of galangal (smashed)
- 4 bay leaves
- 4 lime leaves
For the Sambal (Chili Sauce):
- 4 red curly chilies
- 15 bird’s eye chilies
- 2 garlic cloves
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Beef:
- Cut the beef into small cubes. Begin by boiling the beef in water for a short time to remove impurities. Discard the water and refill the pot with fresh water. Bring it to a boil again.
-
Cook the Spice Paste:
- While the beef is simmering, prepare the spice paste. Blend or grind the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, ginger, and toasted turmeric into a smooth paste.
- In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat and sauté the spice paste until it becomes aromatic. Add the smashed lemongrass, galangal, bay leaves, and lime leaves. Continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes until the paste is thoroughly cooked and fragrant.
-
Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the sautéed spice paste to the pot with beef. Season the soup with salt, powdered broth, sugar, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary and cook until the beef is tender.
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Cook the bean thread noodles according to package instructions. Slice the cabbage thinly and briefly boil it along with the bean sprouts until just wilted, or you can skip boiling if you prefer a crunchier texture.
-
Make the Sambal:
- Boil the red curly chilies and bird’s eye chilies until they are soft. Blend or grind them with the garlic cloves into a smooth paste.
-
Serve the Soto:
- Arrange the cooked bean thread noodles, cabbage, and bean sprouts in individual bowls. Ladle the hot beef broth with chunks of beef over the vegetables.
- Top each serving with slices of tomato, halved hard-boiled eggs, and a generous dollop of sambal. Garnish with chopped scallions, celery leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Enjoy this traditional Indonesian soto sapi kuah bening with your family and friends, savoring the rich flavors and aromatic spices that define this beloved dish.
