Soto Betawi
Lunch • Indonesia
About Soto Betawi
Jakarta-style beef and coconut milk soup with potato and tomato
How to Make Soto Betawi (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Soto Betawi is a beloved Indonesian soup that hails from the heart of Jakarta, often enjoyed as a hearty lunch by locals. This iconic dish is celebrated for its rich, creamy coconut milk broth infused with aromatic spices, tender beef, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Soto Betawi's distinctive flavor comes from combining galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, delivering a fragrant, comforting experience with every spoonful. Originating from the Betawi people, this soup has become a cultural staple, found everywhere from street food stalls to family gatherings. What sets Soto Betawi apart is its balance of creamy and savory notes, achieved without heavy cream—only coconut milk, which is both traditional and healthier. Served hot and garnished with lime, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, it’s a vibrant and satisfying meal, perfect for those seeking authentic Indonesian flavors that are both delicious and nourishing.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl (approx. 400 ml per serving))
- 200 grams Lean beef (sirloin or brisket) (daging sapi)
- 200 ml Light coconut milk (santan encer)
- 600 ml Water
- 1 medium, diced Potato (kentang)
- 1 small, cut into wedges Tomato (tomat)
- 1 stalk, bruised Lemongrass (serai)
- 2 cm piece, smashed Galangal (lengkuas)
- 1 leaf Bay leaf (daun salam)
- 2 leaves Kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
- 3, minced Shallots (bawang merah)
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic (bawang putih)
- 1/2 tsp White pepper (lada putih)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (minyak goreng)
- to taste Salt (garam)
- 1, cut into wedges Fresh lime (jeruk nipis) - optional
- 2 stalks, sliced Scallions (daun bawang) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Add beef and simmer for 10 minutes. Skim off any foam for a clear broth.
10 minutes
Cut beef into bite-sized cubes for faster cooking.
- 2
Heat oil in a pan. Sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant. Add the galangal, lemongrass, bay leaf, and kaffir lime leaves, and cook for another minute.
5 minutes
Stir constantly to avoid burning the spices.
- 3
Add sautéed spices to the beef pot. Stir in diced potatoes and simmer until potatoes are tender.
5 minutes
Add potatoes slightly later to prevent overcooking.
- 4
Pour in light coconut milk, add white pepper and salt to taste. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5 minutes
Avoid boiling vigorously after adding coconut milk to prevent curdling.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Soto Betawi recipe uses lean beef and light coconut milk to reduce overall calories and unhealthy fats, making it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. The addition of vegetables boosts fiber and micronutrient intake, supporting digestion and immunity. By simmering rather than deep frying, the dish maintains essential nutrients while delivering satisfying flavors. It’s a balanced meal perfect for lunch, offering both satiety and nutrition.
Soto Betawi is packed with protein from lean beef, providing essential amino acids for muscle health. The use of light coconut milk reduces saturated fat while maintaining authentic flavor. Potatoes and tomatoes add dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Aromatics like galangal and lemongrass contribute antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs by adjusting the fat content or garnishes.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Simmer the beef gently to keep it tender and juicy.
- 💡Tip 2: Add coconut milk at the end and avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- 💡Tip 3: For a lighter version, scoop off any excess fat from the surface before serving.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Soto Betawi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring to prevent the coconut milk from separating. Best enjoyed fresh.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 150.0 kcal |
| Protein | 12.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8.0 g |
| Total Fat | 8.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |