Indonesian Clear Spinach Soup (Sayur Bening Bayam)

Ingredients

• 1 large bunch fresh spinach, cleaned and roughly chopped
• 4 cups (1 liter) water or clear vegetable broth
• 4-5 shallots, thinly sliced
• 1-2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (optional, but recommended for flavor)
• 2-3 pieces (approx. 2 inches each) temu kunci (fingerroot), lightly bruised (can substitute with a tiny piece of ginger if temu kunci is unavailable, but the flavor will differ)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)

Instructions

1. Bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium pot.
2. Once boiling, add the sliced shallots, sliced garlic (if using), and bruised temu kunci. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes to release their aroma.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the pot. Cook for only 1-2 minutes until the spinach is just wilted and tender-crisp. Do not overcook to retain nutrients and color.
4. Season with salt and sugar (if using) to taste. Stir well.
5. Remove from heat immediately.
6. Serve hot as a light and healthy side dish with rice.