Authentic Indonesian Soto Ayam: Traditional Chicken Soup Recipe

Soto Ayam Versi Ndeso: A Traditional Indonesian Chicken Soup Recipe

Soto Ayam, a beloved Indonesian chicken soup, is celebrated for its rich, aromatic broth and vibrant flavors. This traditional recipe, also known as Soto Ayam Versi Ndeso, combines tender chicken with a fragrant blend of spices, making it a comforting and delightful dish. Perfect for any time of year, this version captures the essence of classic Indonesian cooking.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 Chicken (cut into pieces)
• 2 Kaffir Lime Leaves (Daun Jeruk)
• 2 Bay Leaves (Daun Salam)
• 1 Piece of Galangal (Lengkuas)
• 1 Lemongrass Stalk (Sereh)
• 1 Tomato (diced)
• 1 Spring Onion (Daun Bawang)
• Palm Sugar (Secukupnya)
• Granulated Sugar (Secukupnya)

For the Spice Paste:

• 2 Cloves Garlic (Bawang Putih)
• 4 Shallots (Bawang Merah)
• 1 Piece of Turmeric (Kunyit)
• 1 Piece of Ginger (Jahe)
• 2 Candlenuts (Kemiri)
• 1/2 to 1 tsp Coriander Powder (Ketumbar)
• Salt (Secukupnya)
• Pepper (Secukupnya)
• Seasoning Powder (Secukupnya)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:

   • Place the chicken pieces and bay leaves in a pot filled with room-temperature water. Cook over low heat, allowing the impurities to rise to the surface. Once the impurities have floated up, discard them and continue simmering until the broth becomes clear.

2. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • In a pan, sauté the spice paste ingredients (garlic, shallots, turmeric, ginger, and candlenuts) along with kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and lemongrass. Cook until the spices are fully aromatic and the mixture becomes fragrant. To ensure the spices are well-cooked, add a spoonful of the chicken broth to the pan.

3. Combine and Season:

   • Add the sautéed spice paste to the clear chicken broth. Season with palm sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and seasoning powder. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

4. Final Touches:

   • Add the diced tomato and chopped spring onions to the soup. Stir and cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve:

   • Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with steamed rice or your preferred side dishes. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of Soto Ayam Versi Ndeso!

This Soto Ayam recipe is a wonderful way to experience the traditional flavors of Indonesian cuisine. The fragrant spices and tender chicken make it a perfect dish for family gatherings or a comforting meal on a chilly day.