Bakso Sapi: Indonesian Beef Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 700 grams of high-quality, fresh beef
- 125 grams of sago flour (also known as tapioca flour or starch)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 8-9 large cloves garlic, minced
- 200 cc crushed ice or ice crystals
- Approximately 6 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 large eggs
For the Broth:
- 1 kg beef bones or beef scraps (alternatively, 250 grams of beef scraps and 250 grams of beef bones can be used)
- 1 sachet of beef-flavored instant broth powder (optional)
- 4 liters of clean water
- 12 medium-sized garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- 1 package of cooked egg noodles
- 4-5 stalks green onions, finely sliced
- 1 bunch of celery leaves, finely chopped
- 1 bunch of mustard greens and a handful of bean sprouts (optional)
- Fried shallots for garnish
- Chili sauce, sweet soy sauce, and tomato sauce (to taste)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a food processor or blender, finely grind the fresh beef along with the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed ice. Alternatively, use a meat grinder if available.
- Gradually mix in the sago flour, stirring continuously until the flour is thoroughly incorporated into the meat mixture. Add more flour if necessary until the mixture becomes smooth and elastic.
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Shape the Meatballs:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil for cooking the meatballs.
- Use a spoon to scoop out portions of the meat mixture and shape them into balls with your hands. For larger meatballs, you can use a mold and fill them with pieces of sausage, egg, and cheese, if desired.
- Carefully drop the meatballs into the boiling water. Cook until they float to the surface and are fully cooked through. To avoid overcooking, only boil for a few minutes, then drain the meatballs and proceed to steam them to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
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Prepare the Broth:
- In a separate pot, boil the beef bones and scraps until the broth is rich and flavorful.
- Sauté the minced garlic in a pan until fragrant, then add it to the pot with the beef bones. Season with black pepper, salt, and instant broth powder if using.
- Simmer the broth for a while, then strain it to remove any solid bits.
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Assemble and Serve:
- In serving bowls, place a portion of cooked egg noodles. Add some beef scraps, mustard greens, bean sprouts (if using), green onions, and celery leaves.
- Pour the hot broth over the noodles and vegetables. Add several meatballs to each bowl and garnish with fried shallots.
- Serve with chili sauce, sweet soy sauce, and tomato sauce on the side for added flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Bakso Sapi! This comforting Indonesian beef meatball soup is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
