Bakso Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Bakso Ingredients

Bakso Instructions

  1. Place the finely ground beef chuck and chopped beef tendon in a large mixing bowl. Add the ice cubes and knead the mixture until the ice is mostly melted and the mixture feels sticky and cold.
  2. Add the tapioca starch, egg white, crushed fried shallots, minced garlic, kosher salt, white pepper, sugar, baking powder, and MSG (if using) to the meat mixture. Continue kneading vigorously until the mixture is smooth, sticky, and well combined.
  3. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Wet your hands, then shape the meat mixture into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, squeezing them out between your thumb and forefinger for a smooth surface.
  4. Drop the shaped meatballs directly into the simmering water. Let them cook until they float to the surface, then continue simmering for another 3-5 minutes to ensure they are cooked through. Remove the meatballs with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  5. In a separate large pot, add the beef bones, 8 cups of water, smashed garlic, halved shallots, chopped celery, and white peppercorns. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
  6. Simmer the broth for at least 2 hours, occasionally skimming, until it is rich and flavorful. Season with salt to taste, then strain the broth to remove solids, returning the clear broth to the pot.
  7. Bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Cook your choice of noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. Prepare any desired toppings, such as blanched greens or fried shallots.
  8. To assemble, place a portion of cooked noodles in each serving bowl. Add several meatballs on top, then ladle the hot beef broth over the noodles and meatballs.
  9. Garnish each bowl with your chosen toppings, such as additional fried shallots, chopped celery leaves, or a sprinkle of white pepper. Serve immediately while hot.

Estimated Calories: 260, Servings: 4

Recommended Dishes

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, think of bakso as a prized collection of marbles that you want to keep shiny and intact. The best way to store this delicious dish is to treat it like a treasure, placing the meatballs and broth in separate airtight containers, much like keeping your marbles in velvet pouches to prevent scratches. This method is not only easy and fast but also ensures that the flavors do not mingle too much, preserving the integrity of the recipe for a healthy and great meal later.Shelf life for bakso is like the ticking clock on a sandcastle at the beach, beautiful and sturdy at first but inevitably succumbing to the tide. In the refrigerator, bakso can last for about three to four days, which is a good window for enjoying leftovers without worry. If you want to extend the enjoyment, freezing is a quick and effective way, much like taking a snapshot of your sandcastle before the waves come in, allowing you to revisit the delicious taste of your recipe whenever you wish.Reheating bakso is akin to waking a sleeping cat: you want to do it gently and with care to avoid any grumpiness or loss of charm. The best approach is to reheat the broth and meatballs separately, using a stovetop for even warmth, which helps retain the healthy and delicious flavors. Microwaving can be a fast and easy option, but like a cat startled awake, it may result in uneven texture, so a little patience goes a long way for a great bowl of bakso.

Bakso Story

At first, my relationship with this dish was like being handed a book with a plain cover. I glanced at it, unsure if it was worth my time, and quickly set it aside for more familiar stories. The idea of trying it did not excite me, and I assumed it was just another ordinary meal among many. I was convinced that there were better, more exciting options out there, and so I never gave it a second thought. It was as if I was walking past a painting in a gallery, not realizing the masterpiece that hung before me.
Over time, curiosity nudged me, much like a friend urging me to try a new route home. I decided to give it a chance, following a recipe that promised a quick and easy experience. To my surprise, the first taste was like discovering a hidden shortcut that made the journey not only faster but also more enjoyable. I realized that what I had dismissed as ordinary was actually a good and healthy choice, offering a delicious twist that I had never expected. The process was fast, and the reward was immediate, changing my perception in an instant.
Now, my appreciation for this dish is like finding a favorite song that I want to play on repeat. I seek out the best versions, eager to share them with friends and family, knowing that each bite brings a great sense of comfort and satisfaction. It has become a staple in my collection of go to meals, a reminder that sometimes the most unassuming things can become the most cherished. What once seemed unremarkable is now a delicious highlight, proof that a quick decision to try something new can lead to lasting joy.

Healthy Bakso Tips

Think of making your Indonesian Chinese Bakso recipe like tuning up a classic car for a smoother, more efficient ride-health is your premium fuel! Swap out fatty beef for leaner cuts or even chicken breast, and you'll be cruising down the highway of health without sacrificing that authentic, delicious flavor. Just as you'd choose the best oil for your engine, pick fresh, wholesome ingredients for your homemade Bakso. Add plenty of vegetables to the broth, and you'll turbocharge your meal with vitamins and minerals, making every bite as nourishing as it is tasty. The best part? This easy, quick, and simple approach doesn't just make your Bakso healthier-it keeps the recipe's soul intact, ensuring you get that perfect, authentic taste every time.
Imagine your kitchen as a pit stop, where every tweak to your Bakso recipe is a step toward peak health performance. Ditch the deep fryer and opt for boiling or steaming those meatballs-like switching from gas-guzzling to eco-friendly, you'll cut down on unnecessary fats while keeping things delicious and satisfying. Use low-sodium broth and seasonings, and suddenly your Bakso is running on the best, cleanest ingredients, making it a champion in the health race. With these tips, you'll know exactly how to make a healthy, homemade, and authentic Indonesian Chinese Bakso that's not just tasty, but the best choice for your body-quick, easy, and perfect for anyone looking to put health in the fast lane!

About Bakso Recipe

Bakso is a beloved dish that beautifully blends Indonesian Chinese culinary traditions, making it a staple in many households. This easy and quick recipe for homemade Bakso delivers a delicious and authentic taste that rivals the best street vendors. Using simple ingredients, you can learn how to make the perfect meatballs that are both tasty and satisfying. The key to achieving the best results lies in following the right tips and techniques, ensuring your Bakso is both tender and flavorful.
If you're searching for the best and most authentic Bakso recipe, look no further. This recipe uses a combination of quality ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for anyone wanting to recreate this Indonesian Chinese classic at home. The process is quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a bowl of delicious Bakso in no time. With the right tips, such as using ice water and proper mixing methods, you'll achieve the perfect texture every time.
Homemade Bakso is not only tasty but also versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this simple recipe will guide you on how to make the best Bakso with minimal effort. Serve it with noodles, vegetables, or a flavorful broth for a complete meal. With these tips and the right ingredients, you'll master the art of making delicious, authentic Indonesian Chinese Bakso at home.

Bakso Quick Mistake Fixes

Imagine a symphony where the percussion section drowns out the strings, making the melody hard to appreciate. That is what happens when a dish becomes too salty. The best bakso should be like a well-balanced orchestra, where every note is heard and nothing overwhelms. If the saltiness takes center stage, it can mask the more subtle, delicious flavors that make the dish unique. A good approach is to think of salt as a supporting actor, not the star, ensuring the final result is both healthy and easy to enjoy.
Picture a sponge that has been left out in the sun too long, becoming tough and unyielding. Overcooking can do the same to a dish, robbing it of its natural tenderness and making each bite less enjoyable. The best bakso should be like a soft pillow, inviting and quick to please the palate. When things go awry, the texture can become rubbery, and even the most flavorful recipe will struggle to shine. A great meal is one that feels effortless to eat, not a chore to chew.
Think of a painter who realizes at the last moment that their canvas needs a splash of color to come alive. Balancing flavors with last minute changes is much the same; a squeeze of lime or a dash of pepper can transform a dish from flat to vibrant. The best cooks know that a quick adjustment can make a good meal great, turning a bland bowl into something truly delicious. It is like adding the final brushstroke that brings the whole picture together, making the experience both fast and memorable.