Authentic Indonesian Soto Ayam: Savory Chicken Soup Recipe

Soto Ayam: Indonesian Chicken Soup

Soto Ayam, a cherished Indonesian chicken soup, is a delightful blend of aromatic herbs and spices that create a rich, savory broth. This traditional dish is perfect for a comforting meal, brimming with layers of flavor and accompanied by fresh, vibrant toppings. Follow this recipe to create a warm bowl of Soto Ayam that will surely impress.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams (1/2 kg) chicken – cleaned and cut into pieces
• 4 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 2 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
• 2 stalks lemongrass (serei), slightly bruised
• 2-3 cm galangal (lengkuas), sliced
• Spice Paste:
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds (ketumbar)
  • 2 candlenuts (kemiri)
  • 1-inch piece turmeric (kunyit), peeled and chopped
  • 1/2-inch piece ginger (jahe), peeled and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic (bawang putih)
  • 5 shallots (bawang merah)
• Seasoning:
  • Chicken bouillon powder
  • Salt
• Accompaniments:
  • Bean sprouts (tauge)
  • Chopped fresh celery (seledri)
  • Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
  • Sambal (chili sauce)
  • Fried tempeh (tempe goreng)
  • Potato cakes (perkedel)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

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   • Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and place them in a pot. Add bay leaves and kaffir lime leaves.
   • Pour enough water to cover the chicken and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a dry skillet, toast the coriander seeds over medium heat until fragrant. Allow them to cool, then grind into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
   • Blend or grind the candlenuts, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and shallots into a smooth paste. You can use a food processor or mortar and pestle for this.

3. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste along with the sliced galangal and bruised lemongrass. Sauté until the paste is fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the spices.

4. Combine and Simmer:

   • Once the chicken is tender, add the sautéed spice paste to the pot. Stir well to combine with the chicken and broth.
   • Season with chicken bouillon powder and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

5. Serve the Soto Ayam:

   • Ladle the hot soto into bowls and serve with a selection of accompaniments such as bean sprouts, chopped celery, sweet soy sauce, sambal, fried tempeh, and potato cakes.
   • Enjoy your Soto Ayam with steamed rice or on its own as a hearty soup.

Tips for the Perfect Soto Ayam:

• For an enhanced aroma, bruise the lemongrass and galangal before adding them to the pot.
• The soup’s flavor develops better if allowed to simmer for a longer period, so feel free to adjust the cooking time for a more robust taste.
• Customize the toppings according to your preference, adding more or less based on your taste.

This Soto Ayam recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a wonderful way to experience the flavors of Indonesia right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!