Sop buntut - oxtail soup

sop_buntut_-_oxtail_soup

Indonesia is home to a range of exotic dishes, each with a unique blend of herbs and spices that make them stand out. The Indonesian cuisine is a fusion of Malay, Indian, Chinese and European influences, making it one of the most diverse and flavorful cuisines in the world. One of the most popular dishes in Indonesian cuisine is Sop Buntut, also known as Oxtail soup.

Sop Buntut is a hearty soup made with oxtail, vegetables and a variety of herbs and spices. It is believed to have originated from Java, Indonesia but has since become a beloved dish throughout the country. The dish is usually served with steaming hot rice and is a favorite during cold or rainy weather.

The oxtail used in the soup is incredibly tender and flavorful, making it the perfect ingredient for the rich and comforting broth. Oxtail is slow cooked with carrots, onions, and celery to create a delicious, wholesome broth. The type of vegetables used in Sop Buntut can vary slightly from region to region but the most common vegetables include carrot, onion, celery and tomato.

In Indonesian cuisine, the use of herbs and spices is celebrated for the depth and complexity they lend to a dish. Some of the most popular spices in Sop Buntut include nutmeg, cinnamon, bay leaves, ginger, and cloves. These spices not only add flavor to the soup but also have medicinal properties.

The oxtail itself is the star of the dish since it has a soft and tender texture that comes from being slowly simmered in the broth for hours. The tender meat falls off the bone, making it easy to enjoy. The combination of the different herbs, vegetables and the oxtail make for a delicious, hearty and nutritious soup that is perfect for any occasion.

Sop Buntut can be enjoyed as a main meal or appetizer. It is usually served with plain white rice or noodles, but it can also be served with toasted bread for a comforting twist. The soup is also often accompanied by a side dish of chili sauce or sambal to add an extra kick to the flavors.

The popularity of Sop Buntut has spread around the globe, and it is now possible to find it in many Indonesian restaurants worldwide. However, nothing beats the authentic taste of a homemade bowl of Sop Buntut. The recipe for Sop Buntut can be adjusted according to personal preferences and tastes. Some people prefer to add potatoes or leeks to the soup, while others prefer to keep it simple with just the basic ingredients.

In conclusion, Sop Buntut is a delicious and hearty soup that offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender oxtail, fragrant herbs and spices, and fresh vegetables makes it both rich and nutritious. Whether enjoyed as a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day or as a comforting dish shared with friends and family, Sop Buntut is a dish that represents the true soul of Indonesian cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg oxtail, cut into pieces
  • 2 liters water
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 carrots, cuts into small pieces
  • 2 potatoes, cut into small pieces
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 star anise
  • 3 cloves
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp sweet soy sauce or kecap manis
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fried shallots, for garnish
  • Chopped green onions or chives, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Add water into a large pot and bring to a boil.
  2. Add oxtail pieces and let it simmer for 30 minutes until the meat is soft.
  3. Drain and discard the water. Rinse the oxtail with cold water.
  4. In a clean pot, saute the garlic and onion until fragrant.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes, cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaves, and star anise. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
  6. Add oxtail pieces and pour in 2 liters of water. Bring to a boil.
  7. Add the potatoes and carrots. Let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is really tender and the vegetables are cooked thoroughly.
  8. Season the soup with black pepper, sweet soy sauce, and salt.
  9. Lastly, add the sliced celery and cook for 5 minutes.
  10. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fried shallots and chopped green onions or chives. Enjoy your delicious Indonesian Sop Buntut!