Indonesian Soto Bening: Clear Beef Soup with Fresh Vegetables

Soto Bening Daging Sapi: A Traditional Indonesian Beef Soup

Soto Bening is a beloved Indonesian beef soup that boasts a clear, aromatic broth and a delightful mix of fresh ingredients. Perfect for a hearty meal, this recipe combines tender beef with a fragrant blend of spices and vegetables, making it a comforting and satisfying dish. Here’s how to make this traditional Indonesian soto at home:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 kg Beef (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 large Red Onion (finely chopped)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 Candlenuts (roasted and ground)
• 1 teaspoon Coriander Seeds (ground)
• 1 small piece Ginger (grated)
• 2 stalks Lemongrass (smashed)
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 1 large Potato (peeled, sliced thinly, and soaked in salted water)
• 2 medium Tomatoes (diced)
• 1 small Cabbage (shredded)
• 2 tablespoons Fried Shallots (for garnish)
• 1 cup Bean Vermicelli (soaked in hot water for 10 minutes)
• Crackers (kerupuk, for serving)
• Chili Sauce (sambal, to taste)
• Lime (juiced, for serving)
• Salt and Sugar (to taste)
• Water (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Broth:

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   • Place the beef pieces and smashed lemongrass stalks into a pot. Add enough water to cover the beef and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the beef is tender, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the red onion, garlic, ginger, candlenuts, and coriander seeds. Blend into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add the cooked spice paste into the pot with the beef. Stir well. Add the bay leaves, and adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

5. Prepare the Sambal:

   • Boil fresh chili peppers (both red and green) until soft. Blend the peppers with a little sugar and water to form a smooth chili paste. Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chilies according to your preference.

6. Prepare the Garnishes:

   • Thinly slice the potato and rinse in salted water. Fry the slices in hot oil until crisp and golden brown. Set aside.
   • Boil the bean vermicelli in hot water for 3 minutes, then drain.
   • Shred the cabbage and dice the tomatoes.

7. Assemble the Soup:

   • In serving bowls, place a portion of the cooked bean vermicelli. Top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and a few slices of fried potato.
   • Pour the hot beef broth over the top, ensuring the beef pieces are evenly distributed.
   • Garnish with fried shallots and serve with crackers on the side.

8. Serve:

   • Accompany the soup with sambal and lime wedges. Squeeze lime juice into the soup according to your taste preference. Enjoy the soto with a sprinkle of additional fried shallots and crackers for added crunch.

Tips:

• Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of sambal or fresh chilies according to your taste.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or a touch of fish sauce to the broth.

This Soto Bening Daging Sapi is a delightful Indonesian classic that will warm your soul and impress your guests. The combination of tender beef, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables creates a symphony of flavors in every bowl. Enjoy your homemade soto!