A rich and flavorful broth is the key to a perfect bowl of bakso. Many people search for ways to make clear, tasty, and aromatic bakso soup that rivals their favorite street food vendors. With this recipe, you can create homemade bakso soup that is natural, preservative-free, and packed with authentic flavors.
The secret to a delicious bakso broth lies in selecting the right ingredients and using proper boiling techniques. If done correctly, the broth will be savory and rich without the need for artificial flavor enhancers. In this article, you'll find easy-to-follow steps to make clear and flavorful bakso soup, along with expert tips to ensure the best results.
Ingredients for Bakso Soup
To achieve a rich and clear broth, prepare the following ingredients:
- 2 kg beef bones (use marrow bones or ribs for a more flavorful broth)
- 5 liters of clean water
- 6 cloves of garlic (crushed and fried until golden brown)
- 3 stalks of green onions (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon beef stock powder (optional, can be replaced with natural stock from bones)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, adds natural umami flavor)
- Fried shallots (for garnish)
How to Make Clear and Flavorful Bakso Soup
Boiling Beef Bones for a Rich Broth
1. Wash the beef bones thoroughly, then boil them in hot water for 5 minutes to remove impurities and any strong odors.
2. Discard the first batch of boiling water and rinse the bones under running water.
3. Reboil the beef bones with 5 liters of clean water over low heat for 3-4 hours to extract maximum flavor.
Adding Seasonings and Enhancing the Flavor
4. Once the broth starts developing flavor, add the fried garlic, green onions, white pepper, salt, sugar, and beef stock powder.
5. Stir gently and let the soup simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.
Serving the Perfect Bakso Soup
6. After the broth is fully cooked, strain it to achieve a clear and clean soup.
7. Serve the hot soup with beef meatballs, yellow noodles, vermicelli, and condiments like sambal, sweet soy sauce, and chili sauce.
8. Sprinkle fried shallots and chopped green onions for extra aroma and flavor.
Tips for Keeping Bakso Soup Clear and Flavorful
To ensure your bakso soup remains clear and packed with taste, follow these important tips:
- Use low heat when simmering the beef bones. Slow boiling produces a clearer and richer broth.
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This helps maintain a clean and clear soup.
- Add a small amount of fish sauce or dried shrimp powder. This enhances the natural umami flavor without relying on MSG.
- Avoid stirring the broth too often. Excessive stirring can cause fat to mix into the soup, making it cloudy.
Variations of Bakso Soup for Different Flavors
If you’d like to try different variations of bakso soup, here are some creative ideas:
- Chicken Bakso Soup: Use chicken bones instead of beef bones for a lighter, fresher taste.
- Spicy Bakso Soup: Add crushed chili or chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Herbal Bakso Soup: Infuse the broth with ginger, cloves, and cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist.
Conclusion: Make Your Own Delicious and Healthy Bakso Soup
By following this recipe, you can create a clear, flavorful, and rich bakso soup just like your favorite street vendors. The right boiling technique and proper ingredient selection will ensure a natural, delicious broth without excessive MSG. Feel free to experiment with different soup variations to match your taste preferences. Enjoy making and sharing this comforting dish with your family!