Indonesia is famous for its wide variety of flavorful and comforting soups, and one of the most beloved among them is bakso. Bakso is a meatball soup that is commonly found throughout the country, and there are many regional variations of the dish. One of the most popular and well-known versions is bakso Malang, which hails from the city of Malang in East Java.
Bakso Malang is a hearty and filling soup that is perfect for a cold day or when you need something to warm you up. The meatballs are made from a combination of beef and tapioca starch, which gives them a chewy texture that is similar to that of bouncy fish balls. The broth is made from a blend of beef bones, spices, and herbs, and it has a rich and savory flavor that is irresistible.
There are many different ways to enjoy bakso Malang. Some people like to eat it as a soup with rice noodles, while others prefer it with steamed rice or fried noodles. It is typically served with a variety of condiments and toppings, such as fried shallots, chopped celery, and chili sauce.
Despite its humble origins, bakso has become a beloved dish across Indonesia, and each region has its own take on the classic meatball soup. One of the most famous variations is bakso Malang, which hails from the city of Malang in East Java.
What sets bakso Malang apart is its use of bihun, or rice vermicelli, in addition to the usual noodle and meatball components. The bihun is typically served alongside the soup and mixed in to create a heartier and more filling dish. Additionally, the meatballs in bakso Malang are often made with a combination of beef and tapioca flour, which gives them a unique texture and bounce.
To make bakso Malang, the meatball mixture is first prepared by mixing ground beef with tapioca flour, garlic, shallots, salt, and pepper. The mixture is then shaped into small balls and boiled in a pot of water until cooked through. The soup itself is made by simmering beef bones and spices like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves for several hours to create a rich and flavorful broth. The cooked meatballs are added to the soup along with sliced beef, sliced tofu, and a variety of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and celery. The rice vermicelli is served separately and added to the soup just before eating.
As with many Indonesian dishes, bakso Malang is typically served with a variety of condiments like sambal, soy sauce, and lime juice, allowing diners to customize the flavor to their liking. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly day or when you’re in need of a comforting bowl of soup.
