Mediterranean Diet Bakso Sapi (Indonesian Beef Meatball Soup)

Experience a globally inspired twist on comfort food with this Mediterranean Diet Bakso Sapi, a vibrant Indonesian beef meatball soup reimagined to align with heart-healthy principles. This warming dish combines tender, lightly browned meatballs made from lean ground beef with nutrient-packed vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and fresh spinach, all simmered in a savory, herb-infused beef broth. Seasoned with Mediterranean staples like olive oil, oregano, and basil, this fusion recipe brings together bold, aromatic flavors in a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this wholesome soup is finished with spring onions and a squeeze of zesty lemon for a refreshing pop. Ready in just an hour and packed with protein and fresh produce, it’s a must-try for lovers of healthy, globally inspired cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams lean ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium shallots, minced
• 1 whole egg
• 50 grams breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 liter beef broth
• 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 100 grams fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 stalks spring onions, chopped
• 1 whole lemon, wedged for serving

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine lean ground beef, minced garlic, minced shallots, the whole egg, breadcrumbs, ground white pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 2

Take small amounts of the mixture and shape into small meatballs, approximately 2 cm in diameter. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 3

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them lightly on all sides, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 4

In the same pot, pour in the beef broth, stirring up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5

Add the sliced carrots and allow them to cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.

Step 6

Return the meatballs to the pot and add the sliced zucchini. Simmer for another 10 minutes.

Step 7

Add the fresh spinach, dried oregano, dried basil, and chopped spring onions to the pot. Let it cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper according to preference.

Step 9

Serve the soup hot, garnished with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2254.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1449.1

Total Fat 63.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.2g
Cholesterol 505.8mg	0%
Sodium 7559.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 88.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.0g	0%
Total Sugars 18.6g
Protein 136.5g	0%

Vitamin D 48IU	0%
Calcium 387.5mg	0%
Iron 23.8mg	0%
Potassium 1933.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.9%

Protein: 37.2%

Carbs: 24.0%