Bakso - meatballs soup
Indonesia is a country that is well-known for its wealth of cuisine, with a vast array of flavors that are enjoyed across the archipelago. One of the most popular dishes is Bakso, a meatball soup that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Bakso is a flavorful and hearty soup that is perfect for any occasion. It is also incredibly easy to make at home, making it the ideal choice for those looking for a satisfying meal that is both simple and delicious.
Bakso is typically made from ground beef, with other meats such as chicken or shrimp often being used as well. The meat is mixed with spices, such as garlic, ginger, and other herbs and seasoning, which give Bakso its signature flavor. The meat mixture is then formed into small balls and boiled in a rich broth until they are fully cooked.
The broth used in Bakso is often made from beef bones, with traditional spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cardamom adding depth and richness to the flavor. Other ingredients, such as onions, garlic, and ginger, are added to the broth to create a rich, savory soup that is perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.
Bakso is usually served with noodles, and a variety of vegetables, and leaves, such as bean sprouts, bok choy, and cilantro. Some people also like to add chili sauce or tomato ketchup to their Bakso to add an extra level of flavor and kick to the dish. The noodles used in Bakso are typically egg noodles or vermicelli, and are boiled in a separate pot before being added to the soup.
The beauty of Bakso is how adaptable it is to different tastes and preferences. Vegetarians can easily substitute the meat with tofu or tempeh, while those who are on a low-carb diet can opt for zucchini noodles instead of traditional noodles. Bakso can also be modified to be spicier, or less spicy, to suit individual tastes.
Bakso is not just a tasty dish, but it is also a dish that carries a great deal of cultural significance. Bakso is considered a national dish of Indonesia, and its popularity means that it is widely enjoyed across the country. Bakso vendors can be found on street corners and in markets across the country, and it is a dish that is loved by people of all ages.
Overall, Bakso is a delicious and easy-to-make soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a delicious and warming meal on a cold evening or for a quick and satisfying lunch, Bakso is a dish that can be enjoyed by all. Its versatility and adaptability make it a dish that can be easily customized to individual preferences, making it a staple dish that is beloved by people across Indonesia, and the wider world.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams ground beef
- 100 grams tapioca flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- 5 cups beef broth
- 1 package of egg noodles
- Bean sprouts, chopped scallions, and fried shallots for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, tapioca flour, garlic, shallots, egg, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until it forms a smooth dough.
- Fill a large pot with beef broth and bring it to a boil.
- Take the meat dough and shape it into medium-sized meatballs.
- Drop the meatballs into the boiling broth and let them cook for about 10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, scoop them out of the broth and set them aside.
- In a serving bowl, place some cooked noodles, meatballs, and a ladle of broth.
- Garnish with bean sprouts, chopped scallions, and fried shallots.
Enjoy your Indonesian Bakso!