Indonesian Meatball Soup (Bakso) Recipe

Homemade Bakso: A Beloved Indonesian Comfort Food

Bakso is a cherished Indonesian dish, loved across the archipelago for its savory broth, springy meatballs, and delightful toppings. Traditionally sold by street vendors, this comforting soup can be easily recreated at home with simple ingredients. Follow this step-by-step recipe to bring the authentic flavors of bakso to your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 500g ground beef (or chicken)
• 100g tapioca flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ tsp sugar
• Ice cubes (for texture)
• Cold water (as needed)

For the Broth

• 2 liters water
• 500g beef bones or chicken bones
• 4 cloves garlic, fried and crushed
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ tsp sugar
• Optional: beef stock cube for added flavor

Optional Toppings

• Cooked noodles (egg noodles or vermicelli)
• Fried shallots
• Chopped scallions and celery
• Boiled eggs or tofu
• Sambal (spicy chili sauce)
• Sweet soy sauce
• Vinegar

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs

1. In a food processor, blend ground meat, minced garlic, salt, pepper, sugar, and egg until smooth.
2. Add tapioca flour and a few ice cubes, blending until the mixture becomes sticky and slightly elastic.
3. With wet hands, shape the mixture into small balls.
4. Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Drop the meatballs into the water. Once they float to the surface, they’re cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. Prepare the Broth

1. In a large pot, boil beef or chicken bones in 2 liters of water. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface.
2. Add fried and crushed garlic, salt, pepper, sugar, and an optional beef stock cube for extra flavor.
3. Simmer for 1–2 hours to develop a rich, flavorful broth. Strain if desired for a clearer broth.

3. Assemble and Serve

1. Place cooked noodles in a bowl, add a few meatballs, and ladle hot broth over them.
2. Garnish with fried shallots, chopped scallions, celery, and any optional toppings like boiled eggs or tofu.
3. Serve hot with sambal, sweet soy sauce, and vinegar on the side for customization.

Tips

• For chewier meatballs, ensure the meat mixture is very cold before blending.
• Substitute chicken for beef for a lighter flavor.
• Cooked meatballs can be frozen and reheated in broth later for convenience.

Conclusion

Making bakso at home is a rewarding way to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Indonesia. Whether served as a light snack or a hearty meal, this savory meatball soup is sure to warm hearts and satisfy cravings. Enjoy your homemade bakso with your favorite toppings and a side of sambal for an authentic experience!