Bakso: The Hearty and Comforting Indonesian Meatball Soup You Will Love

Indonesia is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, and one dish that truly represents the country’s love for bold flavors and hearty dishes is Bakso. This popular street food is a meatball soup that is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

At its core, Bakso is a simple dish that consists of meatballs served in a warm broth, but it’s the mix of spices and herbs that make it truly special. The meatballs are made from ground beef, tapioca starch, and a mix of spices and herbs that typically include garlic, shallots, coriander, and ginger. The broth is usually made from beef bones and is seasoned with a variety of spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves.

Bakso can be enjoyed in different ways, and it’s not uncommon to find street vendors selling different variations of the dish. Some Bakso are served with noodles, vegetables, and tofu, while others come with crispy wontons or fried dumplings.

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying bowl of soup, look no further than Bakso. This traditional Indonesian meatball soup is hearty, flavorful, and sure to leave you feeling satisfied. Here’s how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup tapioca starch or cornstarch
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup fried shallots
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili paste
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon lime juice

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, tapioca starch, ice water, baking powder, garlic, salt, and pepper. Knead the mixture until it becomes smooth and pliable.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Bring the beef broth to a boil in a large pot. Add the meatballs to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
4. Add the fried shallots, scallions, soy sauce, chili paste, sesame oil, and lime juice to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the soup back to a boil.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional fried shallots and scallions if desired.

With its delicious flavors and comforting texture, Bakso is the perfect meal for a cold day or when you need a little extra comfort. Give it a try and discover why this Indonesian meatball soup is such a beloved dish!