Sup Kambing

Malaysian Food

Sup Kambing (Mutton Soup)

Origin

Malay/Indonesian cuisine; popular in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore.

Category

Soup / Main Dish

Appearance

Clear to slightly reddish-brown broth with chunks of mutton, vegetables (carrots, potatoes), and garnished with herbs.

Ingredients

• Mutton (with bones)
• Onions, garlic, ginger
• Tomatoes, carrots, potatoes (optional)
• Spices: black pepper, coriander, cumin, cloves, star anise
• Herbs: cilantro, spring onions
• Salt, optional soy or fish sauce

Preparation

1. Blanch mutton to remove impurities.
2. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, ginger) and spices.
3. Add mutton, water, and vegetables; simmer until tender.
4. Season and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Equipment

Cooking pot or slow cooker, knife, cutting board, ladle.

Variations

• Malay-style: lighter broth, aromatic herbs.
• Indonesian-style: spicier, includes cloves and star anise.
• Singaporean/Chinese-influenced: clear herbal broth, sometimes lighter meat cuts.

Taste

Savory, slightly spicy, rich mutton flavor.

Texture

Tender mutton chunks, soft vegetables, smooth broth.

Aroma

Fragrant herbs and spices mixed with rich meaty scent.

Sound

Gentle simmering or bubbling during cooking.

Cultural Significance

Served during festivals (Hari Raya), weddings, or communal gatherings.

Symbolism

Represents warmth, hospitality, and celebration.

Regional Cuisine

Malay Peninsula, Indonesia, Singapore.

Social Context

Comfort food; also a festive or communal dish.

Nutritional Information

High in protein, moderate fat; calories vary by meat quantity.

Health Benefits

Protein-rich; ginger and garlic may aid digestion.

Dietary Restrictions

Not vegetarian; ensure halal meat if required.

Allergens

Usually none, but check for added soy sauce or seasoning.

Cost

Moderate; depends on mutton price.

Production

Fresh ingredients; slow simmering enhances flavor.

Sustainability

Dependent on sourcing of mutton; grass-fed or local sources preferred.

Availability

Restaurants, street food stalls, home-cooked meals.

History

Traditional Malay celebratory dish, historically tied to communal feasts.

Anecdotes

Many families have secret spice blends passed down generations.

How to Prepare

Follow preparation steps; slow cooking improves tenderness and depth of flavor.

FAQ

• Q: Can lamb be used instead of mutton?
  A: Yes, flavor will be milder.
• Q: Is it spicy?
  A: Varies by recipe; usually mild to medium.
• Q: Can it be made in a pressure cooker?
  A: Yes, reduces cooking time significantly.