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Bakso, Across Indonesia
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Nusa Food

Bakso

Across IndonesiaJavaStreet Food

Springy meatballs in hot broth, sold from carts on every street.

Bakso are meatballs made from beef and tapioca, served in a clear broth with noodles, tofu, fried shallots and celery. Diners adjust the taste themselves with sambal, sweet soy sauce and vinegar.

Street vendors announce themselves by knocking on a bowl as they push their carts through neighbourhoods. Malang in East Java is famous for its own style.

Cultural context

Street vendors announce themselves by knocking on a bowl as they push their carts.

Key ingredients

  • Beef
  • Tapioca
  • Clear broth
  • Noodles
  • Fried shallots

Good to know

  • Beef and tapioca meatballs
  • Sold from street carts
  • Malang-style bakso