Recipe Bone Soup

Bone Soup, a hearty and flavorful bone broth soup, is a beloved dish in Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine. It's a comforting dish that warms both the body and the soul. This article presents a step-by-step guide to crafting this delectable soup, along with tips, variations, and a brief overview of its nutritional content.

Ingredients:

1. 1 kg beef or mutton bones, preferably with marrow
2. 2 liters water
3. 2 large onions, chopped
4. 3 cloves garlic, minced
5. 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
6. 2 tomatoes, quartered
7. 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
8. 2 carrots, sliced
9. 2 sticks of celery, chopped
10. 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
11. 2 tablespoons tomato paste
12. 1 tablespoon ground coriander
13. 1 tablespoon ground cumin
14. Salt and pepper to taste
15. Chopped cilantro or spring onions for garnish
16. Sambal or chili sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add beef or mutton bones to the pot. Brown the bones on all sides for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste, ground coriander, and ground cumin. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices.
4. Pour water into the pot, covering the bones completely. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for at least 2 hours. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
5. After simmering, add quartered tomatoes, cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Continue simmering for another 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
7. Once done, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro or spring onions.
8. Serve hot with steamed rice or crusty bread. Sambal or chili sauce can be served on the side for extra heat.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, roast the bones in the oven before adding them to the soup pot.
• Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface while simmering to achieve a clearer broth.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more spices or herbs for extra depth of flavor.
• Bone Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations:

• Replace beef or mutton bones with chicken bones for a lighter version of the soup.
• Add other vegetables such as cabbage, corn, or peas for extra texture and nutrients.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs like turmeric, cinnamon, or lemongrass to customize the flavor profile.

Nutritional Information:

The calorie content of Bone Soup can vary depending on factors such as the type of bones used and the amount of fat in the broth. On average, a serving of Bone Soup contains approximately 200-300 calories. It's a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially when loaded with vegetables.

Conclusion:

Bone Soup is not just a soup; it's a celebration of flavors and traditions. With its nourishing broth and tender meat, it's sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a comforting meal any time of the day, this Malaysian and Singaporean classic is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.