September 5, 2024
Bakso is a beloved Indonesian street food made of tender beef meatballs served in a savory, clear broth with noodles, vegetables, and sometimes tofu or egg. It's comforting, filling, and perfect for a hearty meal.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (low-fat mix) | 500g (1.1 lb) | $3.50 |
| Tapioca starch | 3 tbsp | $0.20 |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | $0.20 |
| Salt | 1.5 tsp | $0.05 |
| Pepper | 1 tsp | $0.05 |
| Ice water | 1/3 cup | Free |
| Egg | 1 | $0.25 |
| Chicken bouillon cubes | 2 | $0.20 |
| Water (for broth) | 1.5 liters | Free |
| Noodles (instant or egg) | 300g | $1.00 |
| Green onions (optional) | 2 stalks | $0.30 |
| Fried shallots (optional) | 2 tbsp | $0.25 |
Make the Meatballs (Bakso): In a food processor or bowl, combine ground beef, tapioca starch, minced garlic, salt, pepper, egg, and ice water. Blend or knead until smooth and sticky. Wet your hands and shape into small balls (about 1 inch wide). Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil, add a bit of salt, and cook the meatballs. When they float, they are done. Set aside.
Prepare the Broth: In another pot, bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil. Add the chicken bouillon cubes and some crushed garlic (optional) for aroma. Let simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavor.
Cook the Noodles: Boil noodles according to package instructions. Drain and portion into serving bowls.
Assemble the Bakso Bowls: Place noodles in each bowl. Add a few meatballs to each. Pour hot broth over. Garnish with green onions and fried shallots if available.
📌 Final Notes:
