Spicy Sour Beef Soup, locally known as Lempah Kuning Daging, is a culinary gem hailing from the Bangka Belitung Islands of Indonesia. This vibrant and flavorful dish is a testament to the region’s rich spice heritage and love for bold tastes.
Lempah Kuning Daging is essentially a beef soup characterized by its distinctive golden-yellow hue, derived from the generous use of turmeric (kunyit in Indonesian). This key ingredient not only lends its vibrant color but also imparts a warm, earthy flavor that forms the backbone of the dish.
The “spicy” element comes from a blend of chili peppers, both fresh and dried, carefully balanced to deliver a pleasant kick without being overwhelming. The heat is then tempered by the “sour” component, traditionally achieved through the use of local sour fruits like tamarind or bilimbi (belimbing wuluh). These souring agents add a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the beef and complements the spice profile perfectly.
Beyond turmeric, chilies, and sour fruits, Lempah Kuning Daging features a medley of aromatic spices such as galangal, ginger, lemongrass, and shallots. These ingredients are finely ground into a paste and sautéed to release their fragrances, creating a complex and layered flavor that dances on the palate.
The beef itself is typically cut into bite-sized pieces and simmered slowly in the spiced broth until tender and succulent. Often, vegetables like pineapple, long beans, or eggplant are added to provide textural contrast and enhance the nutritional value of the soup. Lempah Kuning Daging is usually served hot with steamed rice, making it a satisfying and comforting meal, especially during cooler weather. Its unique blend of spicy, sour, and savory notes makes it a truly unforgettable culinary experience, representing the authentic taste of Bangka Belitung.
