Hearty Indonesian Beef Soup (Sop Sapi)
Sop Sapi is a beloved Indonesian beef soup known for its rich, comforting flavors and satisfying texture. This recipe brings together tender beef, aromatic spices, and a variety of vegetables, making it a hearty and nourishing dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1/4 kg beef (preferably chuck or brisket), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 1/2 liters water
- 1 star anise
- 3 cloves
- 1/2 stick cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon mushroom seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Spice Paste:
- 5 shallots
- 3 garlic cloves
- A pinch of nutmeg
Vegetables and Garnish:
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 6 boiled quail eggs
- 10 green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 stalk green onion, chopped
- Fried shallots, for garnish
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beef:
Begin by cooking the beef in a pressure cooker with water for about 20 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat and create a flavorful broth. Once cooked, cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. -
Make the Soup Base:
In a large pot, add the pre-cooked beef along with the broth from the pressure cooker. Bring to a simmer. -
Prepare the Spice Paste:
While the beef is simmering, blend the shallots, garlic, and nutmeg into a smooth paste. -
Cook the Spice Paste:
Heat a bit of oil in a skillet and sauté the spice paste until fragrant and golden brown. Add this mixture to the simmering beef and broth. -
Add Spices and Vegetables:
Introduce the star anise, cloves, and cinnamon stick to the pot. Season with salt, mushroom seasoning, and ground pepper. Stir well. Add the sliced carrot, diced potato, and green beans. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together. -
Finish the Soup:
Just before serving, add the boiled quail eggs to the soup. Let them warm through. -
Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and fried shallots for extra flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Sop Sapi can be enjoyed on its own or paired with steamed rice for a complete meal. Its robust flavors and comforting ingredients make it an excellent choice for family dinners or special gatherings. Enjoy the rich, aromatic taste of this traditional Indonesian favorite!
Feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted with different vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours.
