Indonesian Soto Ayam: Flavorful Chicken Soup with Homemade Sambal

Soto Ayam Ala-Ala Recipe

Discover the vibrant flavors of traditional Soto Ayam with this simple yet delightful recipe. Soto Ayam, a beloved Indonesian chicken soup, features a rich and aromatic broth filled with tender chicken and fresh herbs. This version is easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams (1/2 kg) chicken: Cut into pieces, seasoned, and fried. Reserve some pieces to be finely chopped.
• Soto Spice Blend:
  • 1 stalk lemongrass (sere), bruised
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk), torn into pieces
  • 1 tablespoon fried shallots (bawang merah goreng)
  • Salt to taste
  • Seasoning (penyedap rasa) to taste
• 2 stalks celery (seledri), chopped
• 1 bunch spring onions (bawang pre), sliced thinly
• 20 small red chilies (cabe rawit), or to taste
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1/4 boiled egg, sliced
• Lime juice (jeruk nipis), optional, for added tanginess
• Homemade potato chips (kripik kentang), for serving

For the Sambal (Chili Sauce):

• 20 small red chilies (cabe rawit)
• 1 medium tomato
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth: In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the finely chopped fried chicken and cook until the broth becomes flavorful. Remove the chicken and set aside.

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2. Make the Broth Base: Add the Soto spice blend ingredients—lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, fried shallots, salt, and seasoning—to the pot. Let it simmer until the flavors meld together.

3. Add the Egg: Once the broth has a rich flavor, add the boiled egg slices and cook briefly.

4. Prepare the Sambal: In a separate pot, boil the red chilies and tomato until softened. Once cooked, grind them into a smooth paste and add salt to taste. Mix some of this sambal into the broth.

5. Assemble the Soto: In a serving bowl, place a portion of rice vermicelli (bihun), fried chicken shreds, and some of the potato chips. Top with fried shallots. Pour the hot broth over the ingredients.

6. Garnish and Serve: Add sliced celery and spring onions on top. If desired, squeeze a little lime juice for extra freshness. Serve hot with extra sambal on the side for those who prefer more spice.

Enjoy this hearty Soto Ayam with a bowl of crispy potato chips for a satisfying and comforting meal.